Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Hill hoping Cherries duo are in for the long haul
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. 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. 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. 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. 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. It would be nice for them to be able to manage this side short, medium and long-term. 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. 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. 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. Cherries chairman Eddie Mitchell reiterated earlier this week his determination to keep hold of Cherries' stars during the transfer window.