BOURNEMOUTH defender Steve Cook has urged his side to “be up for the challenge” ahead of their FA Cup third-round clash with Millwall at The Den.
The Lions are hoping to cause an upset against the Cherries on Saturday and reach the fourth round for the first time since 2013.
Millwall and Bournemouth’s last FA Cup meeting was in the second round in December 2007 when goals from Ahmet Brkovi? and Will Hoskins helped the home side to a 2-1 win.
Bournemouth are currently in ninth place in the Premier League table after Tuesday night’s 3-3 draw with Arsenal at Dean Court.
Cook (above in a Championship clash at The Den in December 2014) has scored twice against Millwall in his career. He admits the league is the priority for Eddie Howe’s side, but hopes they can get past their opponents at a “hostile” Den.
Cook told Bournemouth Echo: “It’s tough to say we’re safe because, in the Premier League, things can turn very quickly.
“But whoever plays in cup matches has a chance to stake a claim for a league spot.
“We want to enjoy the FA Cup. It can be a magical competition and you need wins in it to take into league games.
“We have to build some momentum, we haven’t won back-to-back league games for a long time.”
“I’m fit and ready and, if called upon, I’ll be looking to make sure we get through.
“It’s always hostile there and we must be up for the challenge.”
Image: Millwall FC