Louis Saha has backed “quality” Eddie Howe to become a future England manager. A drastic turnaround on Tyneside since the former Bournemouth boss’ appointment has seen him re-emerge as one of England’s brightest managers.
Relegation on the South Coast dented Howe’s reputation among some critics despite helping the Cherries reach the lofty heights of the Premier League. People were quick to forget that the 44-year-old helped Bournemouth reach the top flight from League Two - and kept them there for five years.
Talk of an England opportunity has been mooted in recent times but Howe was quick to downplay suggestions. When asked about harbouring Three Lions ambitions in September, the Toon boss insisted the job was “not on his radar” anytime soon.
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“Gareth’s done an incredible job, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart,” Howe said. “I have been lucky enough to go in and see him work, and I have a lot of time for him and Steve Holland.
"They’ve been amazing for England. You have to remember where England were before he took over, and what he has done for the country.
“I never say never, never say ‘no, it won’t be something I’m interested in’. But, in the short term, it’s not on my radar at all. It’s all Newcastle - and trying to make this team better.”
However, Saha - who spent five months on loan at Newcastle in 1999 - has still tipped Howe to land English football’s biggest gig. Speaking to Paddy Power, the Frenchman said: “Eddie Howe has the quality to be a future England manager. When someone shows the right attitude consistently, he has the potential to go far.
“He won’t be feeling any pressure because Newcastle are getting results and winning games. When things aren’t going so well, there will be enormous pressure as Newcastle can be linked with any manager because of their owners.
“He’s done very well in the transfer window. It would’ve been dangerous for the club if they went and signed a bunch of big names. He hasn’t destroyed the infrastructure at Newcastle and he’s managed the egos of the bigger players.
“He’s maintained the expectations and the fans have been supportive of the style of play. It’s great to have the balance, so all credit to him more than the players because we can see that the players want to work hard for him.”
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