Eddie Howe reportedly turns down Lens amid Man Utd and Fulham links
Eddie Howe has reportedly turned down an approach from Lens, with our former manager said to be waiting for the right job as speculation over his next move continues.
The claim comes from Graeme Bailey at TEAMtalk, who is about as reliable as a McDonald's ice cream machine. So you'll forgive me for treating this one with a fair amount of scepticism.
Howe reportedly turns down Lens approach
The report claims the French club made enquiries in September, with Howe's camp deciding it wasn't the right fit.
Bailey also claims Howe is ready to return to management, but wants a project that matches his ambitions rather than simply taking the first job available.
Earlier this month, we covered Luke Edwards' report that Howe had no immediate plans to return and wanted more time with his family.
The wider noise around Eddie is hardly surprising, though. He's a top manager who took us from a relegation battle to the Champions League and ended that long wait for a domestic trophy. His work at Bournemouth was remarkable too. Of course clubs are going to look at him.
Fulham and Man Utd would bring very different challenges
Fulham and Manchester United are both being linked, and I have mixed feelings about both.
He's far too good to end up at Fulham, surely? That might sound harsh, but after what he achieved here, I'd like to think he can aim higher. Equally, you can see why a relatively relaxing job in west London might appeal after everything he put into Newcastle.
Manchester United, though, looks like a poisoned chalice. Michael Carrick already looks to be on the brink, and you've got Lisandro Martinez publicly calling out director of football Jason Wilcox after Tuesday's defeat at Atletico Madrid. They're a mess on and off the pitch.
I'd hate to see Eddie become the next manager taking the blame for problems that go well beyond the dugout. He'd be mad to take it on, but if a job of that magnitude is actually offered, can he really turn it down? I wouldn't blame him for wanting to have a go, even if I'd much rather he stayed well clear.
Whatever he chooses, it's going to sting seeing him manage somebody else. I imagine Bournemouth fans felt something similar when he came here, watching a manager who had done so much for their club build that same connection somewhere new.
Hopefully he's enjoying his rest and takes the least offensive job possible when he's ready. Maybe something like replacing Cesc Fabregas at Como one day. That'd be nice for everyone.
