The 3 key battles as Bournemouth host Chelsea this evening

Jack Wilshere vs N’Golo Kante

Jack Wilshere returned to the Bournemouth starting line-up in the draw with Liverpool in midweek, and looks set to retain his place against the league leaders this afternoon.

The England international had been benched in their previous three Premier League games, but returned with a commanding display at Anfield to further remind us all of his excellent ability in the centre of midfield.

And he’ll have to be at his very best again this evening when he comes up against N’Golo Kante.

The Chelsea man has been outstanding for the leaders this term, building on his stunning campaign for champions Leicester last time out, and looks set to make it two league titles out of two since moving to England in 2015.

The France international has made the midfield spot his own, and no wonder, given his insatiable appetite to cover every blade of grass and thwart opposition attacks, but also look to get forward and make a telling contribution in the attacking third.

Quite simply, he can do everything you want from a central midfielder, which means that Bournemouth’s Wilshere will have to be at his best to not only have an effect on proceedings, but also to reduce Kante’s impact on the match.