Daniel Farke: It’s a big chance for us to make a statement

The City boss is looking forward to the test that awaits his players on Tuesday night, and has been full of praise for Bournemouth, in particular manager Eddie Howe.

Farke said: “It’s not the biggest name in the country [AFC Bournemouth], for example Manchester City or Liverpool, but we are full of respect and it’s a big compliment to Eddie for the job he has done.

“He’s doing a fantastic job; they have had a brilliant start to the season. It’s tough when you have to play against them as it’s so difficult to beat them.

“They are in some of the top places in the Premier League; close to the positions that allow you to qualify for the Champions League, that’s a sign of the quality of their squad.”

Farke is optimistic going into the game at the Vitality Stadium, but knows his side are not the favourites. He said: “We know we are not favourites going in to these games, especially because it’s an away game.

“I’m pretty sure that they will also be aware of our good form and I’m sure they will be pretty respectful of us.

“It’s not like we want to give this away, we will be focused on the game, and perhaps more focused than them.”

The boss has also been full of praise for his own players after his side returned from the international break in fine form, wining all three games against Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa and Brentford.

“We can’t deny our really good form as we are in a top position in the Championship; we are on a really good run with many wins in a row. Our performances have also been pretty good since the international break.”

Last season City travelled to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal in the same competition, and took the Gunners to extra-time. Farke will be hoping for a similar performance on Tuesday, as he sets his sites on progressing in the cup.

“It’s a big chance for us to make a statement and have another good performance, when you have a big chance to get into the last eight of the cup; you want to take that chance.”