Cherries: Howe now up with the legends in eyes of supporters

HIS name was buried with the time capsule. It is also etched on a commemorative brick outside the entrance to Dean Court. Eddie Howe yesterday carved himself a special place in the hearts of all Cherries supporters by turning down two lucrative job offers. Having decided to again stay loyal to Cherries, Howe's already-lofty standing will have now been elevated to legendary status. If presiding over a footballing miracle in his first job had failed to tip the balance, King Edward's stock is sky-high following this latest chapter. But for how much longer can the fairytale continue With Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic the latest suitors to court Howe's services, his reputation is burgeoning. Unsuccessful approaches from the south London rivals came on the back of Howe having already politely snubbed both Peterborough and Southampton. However, realistic Cherries supporters among the club's fan base will know it is a case of four down and plenty more to go as their young manager continues to deliver. Howe himself will also be mindful of the fact that some prospective employers, particularly those from higher-level clubs, may start to question whether he actually wants to move. And while Palace, Charlton, Saints and Posh are in a different league to Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United, bigger fish are certain to eventually come calling. By keeping Cherries up and then plotting an against-all-odds promotion, Howe has already proved, beyond any conceiveable doubt, his ability to cut it in a cut-throat business. As a result, Cherries chairman Eddie Mitchell, a builder by trade, would do well to start the foundations on the statue.

Source: Bournemouth_Echo