Former Bournemouth defender Simon Francis claims that he and his fellow teammates at the Cherries knew that Eddie Howe was destined for big things when he was manager at the club.
Francis was a mainstay in Howe’s side over the eight years which seen them rise through the leagues making it to the English Premier League, where they spent three years.
As quoted by the Daily Record, speaking to BBC Sport Francis claimed that despite the Hoops fans excitement, some may not realise ‘how good he could be’.
“Until it’s confirmed it’s hard to say but I’m very excited for his next step in football management.
“There was always going to be a time when he walked away from Bournemouth, of course. I would’ve loved it if it had been after the club stayed in the Premier League and it would’ve been on his terms.
“Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.
“We always used to speak about it (at Bournemouth, especially when we were in the Premier League he would always get linked with top Premier League clubs or the England job.
“It’s just great to see because we always used to say in the changing room he was destined to be a top manager.
“For me, he’s the best coach I’ve worked with, the best man-manager as well.
“For him to go into a club like Celtic, if it is Celtic, would be a huge coup for the football club.
“I don’t think they realise how good he could be up there. I know the fans are already excited about it, it seems like he’s their number one target.
“The vast improvement he could make on a squad of players with a lot of talent in there already.
“Given time with a pre-season under his belt, he’ll get to know the players and see where he needs to strengthen, he’ll certainly be able to rival Steven Gerrard next season.”
In the last week or so, we have seen many interviews from former players or teammates who may have worked or played alongside Eddie Howe, stating the quality that he possesses.
At this stage, it looks as though Howe will be the new manager next season, barring any last-minute changes of heart.
An appointment like this is certainly one that would excite a majority of the Celtic support and a sign of intent, as we enter a new era going forward.
Is that the way the journalists work ? Contacting former team mates , players , managers , 2nd cousins, anybody attall whoever spoke to the person, to get they’re take on them ? Surely not ?