INTERIM boss Gary O’Neil is hoping to keep his team on message when Cherries face Newcastle, whilst understanding the narrative surrounding the reunion with legendary manager Eddie Howe.
Gary O’Neil shared: “I think the boys are very used to there being noises outside that can take away from what is another game. And the boys will always approach it as the next game, whether it’s going back to your old club, whether it’s an old manager, whatever it may be. There will be things like that for somebody every week and we just approach it like it’s another game. Obviously, Eddie’s impact on the club was huge. I’m sure everyone around here is still grateful for the fact that when he came in, they were in League Two and he took him to the heights of the Premier League. So it’s an incredible job he’s done. But the boys will approach it like we’re going to Newcastle to win a game of football and see if we can accomplish that.”
The match with Newcastle marks O’Neil’s third game in charge of the side as the club continues their search for a permanent manager. After a dull 0-0 draw with Wolves to mark his managerial debut, O’Neil’s charges bounced back to complete a rousing comeback win over Nottingham Forest last time out. When asked if the 3-2 victory looked good in terms of showing his managerial credentials,
Gary O’Neil shared: “That isn’t what I’m thinking, but, yeah, I’m sure it would have been. I’m not considering my CV. I’m just fully focused on the 25, making sure they’re ready, making sure I’ve given them everything they need and that they’re ready to go and represent the club again on Saturday.”
O’Neil then shared his belief that his side will face a tough atmosphere at an amped up St James’ Park,
Gary O’Neil added: “I think the style of football they’re playing at the moment helps get the fans off their seats and create an atmosphere. The boys will be ready. We know what’s coming. We go up there determined to show a real resilience and show our qualities.”
