Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Howe grateful to board as Cherries stay in the north
BOSS Eddie Howe has offered a vote of thanks to the Cherries board for giving his squad the opportunity to prepare fully for their awayday double-header. Howe's troops are today due to hit the road for another long-haul trip to the north west ahead of tomorrow's League Two clash against Crewe. And in an attempt to keep travelling time to a minimum and also ensure the players remain fresh, the squad will then stay in the north for Tuesday's visit to Rotherham. The Cherries board sanctioned Howe's request for four nights' hotel accommodation, together with transport costs. Cherries and their supporters have already racked up more than 6,000 miles on the road this season, with another 4,000 to follow, starting with trips to Crewe and Rotherham. Howe told the Echo: The chairman has wanted to help with every request we've made and he's been fully supportive. We're thankful to the board for helping us prepare properly. With two northern away games in a short space of time, it makes sense to stay up. But there is a financial implication so the club does get hit hard in the pocket with away trips. We do appreciate how difficult it is financially and the support is very much appreciated. Rotherham's South Yorkshire neighbours Sheffield United have also agreed to allow Cherries to use their training facilities and sessions will be arranged for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday morning. Howe added: Sheffield United have been very accommodating so we're thankful to them for their help. ¢ Former owner Paul Baker has asked us to point out that John Piper's loan for £30,000 was made to AFC Bournemouth and not Sport-6