Eddie Howe hints at Bournemouth exit after Watford defeat

Eddie Howe has hinted that he might be coming close to the end of his project at AFC Bournemouth after his team suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of Watford.

It was a very important game in terms of the relegation battle in the Premier League. If Bournemouth had pulled off a victory or even a draw against Watford, they could have been out of the bottom 3 at the end of the match-day.

Bournemouth’s goal differential ahead of the Watford game was -12, which would have stayed the same or would have improved with a draw or a win.

With Aston Villa going down 1-6 against Manchester City later in the day, the Cherries would have been able to get to no. 17 on the basis of goal differential. But they lost the opportunity and suffered a three-nil defeat to rather slip down to no. 19.

Although Howe is a popular figure among the Bournemouth fans for his style of football, 9 defeats in the last 11 games have put him under severe pressure.

Bournemouth plays their next few games against the teams which are in the bottom half of the table and if the results go wrong in those games as well, Howe might be on his way out.

The 42-year old has hinted that he is contemplating his future already.

“You’re always looking at whether you're doing good enough and whether ultimately you're helping the team. That's something I'll have to reflect on.” Howe was quoted as saying by BBC.

If Howe moves out of Bournemouth, he might have to wait for his aspired job. He would definitely want a crack at the top job, rather than going back to the Championship.

Manchester United is the only top Premier League club which might opt for a new manager in the summer, but they will probably consider Mauricio Pochettino or Massimiliano Allegri if the current manager Ole is relieved of his duties.

There are talks that Pep Guardiola might part ways with Manchester City as well, at the end of the ongoing season. But the City job might be a bit too far-fetched for Howe, despite the fact that he fits in the club’s attacking brand of football.

Featured Image Credits: The Independent