STEVE Cook reckons that Bournemouth ‘owe’ Saints for last season.

Saints got a vital 2-1 win over the Cherries in April to all but guarantee their status in the top flight for another campaign.

And Bournemouth defender Cook is gunning to avenge their loss and prove why they reign supreme on the south coast.

Cook said: “I think we are the dominant club right now. 

“We finished above everyone on the south coast last season. 

“I am sure a lot of people would argue against that but we let

Southampton off last season - from a mistake by me - and we probably kept them in the league. 

“We owe them. I know it’s at home, but we will be looking to put things right from the away game last season and prove that we are the top team in the south.”

Despite this, Cook admitted that he was glad to see Saints stay in the Premier League as it gives the match between the two clubs time to develop.

And although it’s only eight games into the season, he is still desperate to ensure that it is the Bournemouth fans who come away cheering about the result tomorrow. 

Cook added: “It doesn’t really mean too much right now but it’s nice to have some bragging rights for the fans. 

“In the end I was pleased Southampton did stay up because the rivalry will grow as long as we are both in the Premier League and playing regular fixtures.” 

Mark Hughes insists that he has no problem with Cook claiming south coast supremacy ahead of the clash at the Vitality Stadium.

He wants his players to use the jibes as a motivational tool. 

“I used to love that as a player - other players spouting off saying they’re better,” said Hughes.

“They can do that all day long if they like.”