Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Howe is focused on the task ahead
CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe is keen for the spotlight to quickly return to his players following what he described as a turbulent week. Howe yesterday took training at Canford School for the first time since turning down the opportunity to take the managerial reins at Championship strugglers Crystal Palace. The 33-year-old had been the focus of intense speculation after it had emerged that Cherries had received formal approaches from both the Eagles and Charlton. Howe, who has also been linked with a vacancy at Burnley, attended lengthy interviews with both south London clubs before he was offered the job at Selhurst Park. But following a week of intrigue, Howe finally opted to remain at Dean Court with his decision thrusting the local and national media glare on him. Speaking publicly for the first time since he gave a press conference on Tuesday, Howe told the Daily Echo last night: I am not the type of person who enjoys having the spotlight on them. I don't relish it and it is not something I want. I would much rather the focus was on the club and the players, rather than on any one individual. I am part of the coaching team. It is not about me, it is about the team behind the team. It is definitely better than having the spotlight on you for being under pressure so I can't grumble and don't want to come across as if I am. We just want to keep getting results and keep being successful as a team. That's all that is in my thoughts at the moment. The performance we gave against Plymouth was somewhat overshadowed, which was a real shame because the lads were excellent. Howe was keen to ensure his squad was informed first of his decision and told the players during a meeting at Dean Court before an announcement was made to the press. I wouldn't say it has been a normal week, but it hasn't been too different either, said Howe. The lads have trained well and worked hard. Apart from a hectic day on Tuesday, it has been business as usual. I don't think this week's events will make a huge difference to the players. They have been through a lot worse. You just tend to get on with it because things change so quickly in football. As a player, you adapt to that and they have been fine. Howe's players will be put in the spotlight tomorrow when Cherries' visit to League One rivals Colchester United is televised live by Sky Sports. It is a game of huge importance, said Howe. We are on the back of three victories and, hopefully, will be looking to continue our good form. We had a good away win at Swindon on New Year's Day and would love another one. But Colchester are a very good side and it is going to be a tough game. Meanwhile, Howe has dismissed Internet rumours suggesting he is on the verge of signing Torquay striker Elliot Benyon.