Rahman, Atsu in line for Cup action

Ghanaian duo Christian Atsu and Baba Rahman may finally get some much-awaited game time on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Atsu moved to Bournemouth during the transfer window on a season-long loan but despite his talent has been benched for most of his time there. Coach Eddie Howe will likely feature the Ghana star against Preston North End on Tuesday.

Atsu last played for the club a month ago, when he set up a goal as the club beat Hartlepool 4-0 in the League Cup.

Atsu will feel lifted especially as Bournemouth's assistant manager Jason Tindall hinted that fringe players will be used. "It gives the players who aren't playing at the moment something to look forward to," Tindall told the club's website.

"It's an opportunity to play, do well and put thoughts in the manager's head. We saw that last year when some of the lads put in excellent performances and they were duly rewarded."

Elsewhere, Baba Rahman of Chelsea may get some football after making his debut last week in the Uefa Champions League. Having played quite well, the player had his hopes for regular playing time dashed by Jose Mourinho, who said the 21-year-old was not ready for Premiership football.

Wednesday sees Chelsea travel to League One side Walsall. Baba would hope for some minutes.