Thread on why I think Eddie Howe would be a positive appointment for Celtic, if it was to happen.

Disclaimer, no expect on football analysis but thought I’d give it a try

Bournemouth line up in a 4-4-1-1 structure which shifts to a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 depending on the situation. This dynamic formation suits his style of play as it has structure giving them a balance between the attack and the defence. (Something we’ve struggled with this season)

Bournemouth under Eddie Howe required energy with him demanding a high press on the opponents to force a turn over of possession deep into in the oppositions half. As well as having a balanced structure there to protect the back 4, with the RWB tucking in to cover

Against top opposition, they may also develop into a 4-1-4-1, where one of the central midfielders drops down to cover the defense. Consistently encouraged to maintain possession regardless of opponent and build, steadily, from the back. (Something we haven’t seen since Rodgers)

Utilising what we have already

The two midfielders in this dynamic formation form a conventional double pivot. One of them is instructed to be anchor and shield the defence (Soro) while his partner is often a box to box midfield (McGregor/Turnbull).

More specifically allowing us to play and up, back and through combination to beat a high press which we struggle with. Particularly against Rangers

An example of Bournemouth’s pivot in action

Despite scoring the 5th fewest goals in 2019/20 (29) 45% of goals scored have come from dead-ball situations (13). Utilising the skills and assets available to have a positive outcome. Set pieces being something we’ve struggled with for years

Full backs and the wingers are heavily utilised in this system. Fullbacks push high up the park to either overlap/underlap or help as an outlet in the possession retention cycle. The winger drops into the half space allowing the full back to overlap and go 1v1 on the outside.

Shown here through Fraser/Stanislas in the half space, with Smith/Francis overlapping outside

In interviews he aims not only to get the best out of individuals, but to bind the group together to play for each other. Creating a bond so regardless of the talent, everyone is contributing, Something which the players will be looking for in the summer with so many leaving.

His philosophy at Bournemouth which is rated so highly amongst people at the top

With so many players set to leave us in a few months and now looking at the bigger picture it’ll be interesting to see the boards action if immediate bounce back is on the plans or a long term plan, all down to the appointment. Howe a free agent would be an ideal appointment

Ralf Rangnick and his role as a Director of Football to take us to the next level next on the list soon if anyone is actually interested and fancies reading