In a stunning revelation, former Bournemouth defender Charlie Daniels has lifted the lid on why Eddie Howe rejected the chance to manage Liverpool earlier in his career.
The Cherries legend, who played under Howe during their rise through the football pyramid, claims the now-Newcastle boss turned down the Anfield hotseat due to his unwavering loyalty to Bournemouth.
The Loyalty That Shocked Football
Daniels told The Mirror: "Eddie had built something special at Bournemouth and he wasn't prepared to walk away from that project. The Liverpool approach came when we were establishing ourselves in the Premier League, and Eddie felt he had unfinished business."
The left-back, who made over 250 appearances for the south coast club, revealed how Howe's decision stunned the dressing room at the time.
What Could Have Been
"We all knew about the Liverpool interest," Daniels continued. "It was an open secret in football circles. But Eddie never wavered in his commitment to Bournemouth. That's the measure of the man."
The revelation raises fascinating questions about how different Liverpool's recent history might have been had Howe taken charge at Anfield instead of Jurgen Klopp.
Howe's Bournemouth Legacy
Daniels' comments highlight the special bond Howe created during his two spells at Bournemouth:
- Transformed the club from League One to Premier League
- Established attractive, attacking football philosophy
- Developed numerous players who earned England call-ups
- Created one of the greatest underdog stories in English football
The defender's revelations come as Howe prepares to face Liverpool with Newcastle this weekend, adding extra spice to the Premier League clash.
