The Japan winger opened his account for the season with a far-post header at Bournemouth in September.

It was his fifth goal against the Cherries, but the first in a defeat.

Those goals have come in six games, of which five have been won.

He netted twice off the bench in 2023-24 having headed a late winner in the previous campaign.

Mitoma guided home the winner at the Vitality Stadium last season from a Joao Pedro pass.

The five goals he has scored against the Cherries tops the four he netted against Gamba Osaka while playing for Kawasaki Frontale in Japan.

He has not scored more than twice against any other Prem opponents.

Speaking after his recent point-earning goal at Manchester City, the fit-again flyer said: “Scoring made me feel like I truly became part of the team again.

“But, having missed two-and-a-half months, I still need to get back to my best from here.

“I think I’m expected to be available consistently for matches, and I want to keep producing results.

“I know I need to score more goals from now on.”

Mitoma played a limited role in the FA Cup win over Manchester United but will be expected to return to the XI as the Cherries head to the Amex.

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