Hill hoping Cherries duo are in for the long haul

20 January 2011 07:00
RIVAL boss Keith Hill has voiced his support for Cherries duo Lee Bradbury and Steve Fletcher by revealing he wants to see them handed the chance to manage longer term.[LNB] The Rochdale chief gave his verdict on Cherries' caretaker management team after watching them secure a 0-0 draw against his side in their first match in charge.[LNB] Senior professionals Bradbury and Fletcher were handed the reins following Eddie Howe's departure. When asked for his views on making the move into management, Hill told the Echo: It's exciting. You think you're prepared for it and you will be a bit nervous at times.[LNB] But you will earn your stripes with performances like the one he got from his players here. It proved they have got the backing of the players. I thought Bournemouth were excellent and I thought we were as well.[LNB] He (Bradbury) will learn from his experiences and I hope he gets the opportunity to manage the job longer term because it's obvious he's got an affinity for the club, like Eddie had, and Fletch has as well.[LNB] It would be nice for them to be able to manage this side short, medium and long-term.[LNB] Asked what tip he would offer for his rookie counterpart, Hill said: I'm not the best for advice, but keep the players on your side because they will win the football matches for you.[LNB] In his programme notes, Hill lavished praise on Howe and added: Bournemouth have a good squad of players and many of them could play at Championship level.[LNB] If I was a manager in a higher division, I'd see a few players who could do a job for me and it wouldn't be a surprise if Eddie came in for a few of them.[LNB] Cherries chairman Eddie Mitchell reiterated earlier this week his determination to keep hold of Cherries' stars during the transfer window.[LNB]

Source: Bournemouth_Echo