Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Howe's pain over hotshot Austin
EDDIE Howe has admitted it pains him to see the remarkable rise of former transfer target Charlie Austin.[LNB] The former Poole Town ace is expected to lock horns with Howe's men tomorrow when he leads the line for Swindon Town in the League One clash at the County Ground (3pm).[LNB] Austin, 21, played for Cherries' reserves during a lengthy trial spell away from Tatnam.[LNB] Howe, who was quick to lavish praise on Austin yesterday, had been keen to secure the striker's services but was agonisingly denied the opportunity by the club's long-running transfer embargo.[LNB] To rub salt into Cherries wounds, the prolific frontman went on to join Swindon, where his reputation has rocketed thanks to 35 goals in just 52 starts.[LNB] Asked how he felt about Austin's success away from Dean Court, Howe told the Echo: It pains me greatly, just because we knew what a talent he was.[LNB] I think we were all slightly surprised about how quickly it progressed for him. But it didn't surprise us in terms of his ability.[LNB] He was always going to be a talent and I think he will always score goals. Full credit to him for how his career has progressed and the speed at which it has.[LNB] Austin earned his chance in the professional ranks after netting 64 goals in 57 Poole Town appearances. He has subsequently made the transition from Wessex League to Football League look straightforward.[LNB] It was a remarkable rise and that's why I say the only thing that surprised me was the speed, said Howe.[LNB] We were very keen to sign him ourselves and he would have added greatly to the young strikers we already have at the football club.[LNB] But it wasn't to be. It's history. He went to Swindon, he's done well and we're pleased for him.[LNB] When asked if his team would be well prepared to deal with Austin, Howe said: I think so. The lads that trained against him and played against him are still here.[LNB] It's one thing knowing about him and another thing stopping him. It will be a difficult and a good test for our defenders to deal with him.[LNB] Swindon sit in 16th position but boast a far stronger record on home turf, with 18 of their 25 points coming at the County Ground.[LNB] Giving his thoughts on the opposition, Howe added: I think after the highs of last season for them, it's been a difficult campaign so far.[LNB] But we're not going to underestimate them. Going to Swindon is always difficult and they have got Charlie Austin, who is bang in form.[LNB]
