Bournemouth has only won one of its first eight games, with one draw and six defeats, leaving it in down in 19th place on the ladder, just a point above Crystal Palace.

The Cherries have enjoyed a remarkable rise up from League One in the past five years, clinching promotion to the top flight in 2015. They have managed to beat the drop in the past two campaigns, finishing 16th and then ninth in 2016-17 under Eddie Howe.

Bournemouth is arguably the smallest club in the Premier League, with its ground Dean Court holding just 11,360 fans.

Despite their poort start, Aussie keeper Holmes is keeping the faith.

"The performances have been improving every week," he told FourFourTwo.

"I'm optimistic we will stay up. Everyone's really positive and there's a long time to go yet."

Holmes has been at Bournemouth for four years after leaving Rockdale City Suns as a 16-year old.

Now 20, the shot-stopper has been appearing regularly for the club's Under-23s and Under-21s sides this season. He was part of the side that defeated Norwich 3-2 and Wigan Athletic 3-1 in the Premier League Club.

"It's been good this season and I've been playing a lot for the Under-23s," he said.

Holmes, who has represented Australia on the international at youth team level, is one of three Aussies on the books at Bournemouth along with Adam Federici and Brad Smith.

He said Socceroo keeper Federici, who has spent 14 years playing in the UK, has been a big influence on him.

"He's a massive role model for me and I've always admired what he has done and achieved in England," Holmes said.

"He has given me some priceless advice, which I will always remember."

Photo credit: AFC Bournemouth