Cherries: Austin so grateful to Howe (From Thisisdorset)

Cherries: Austin so grateful to Howe

6:51pm Friday 12th October 2012 in Latest Sport By Ian Wadley

TURF MOOR MOVE: Charlie Austin with Eddie Howe after completing his move to Burnley

STAR pupil Charlie Austin says mentor Eddie Howe is a boss who cares about his players and has a fierce will to win.

Howe was tonight poised to complete his Cherries return after the Dorset club agreed terms with Burnley over a compensation package.

Austin was quick to lavish praise on the man who has helped shape his career since his days on the non-league scene with Poole Town.

The frontman carved a reputation as one of the most lethal finishers in semi-professional football as he netted 64 goals in 57 Poole appearances.

Howe offered Austin a trial but saw him move to the Football League with Swindon Town after Cherries had been prevented from launching a bid due to the club's long-running transfer embargo.

But Howe resurrected his interest in Austin after leaving Cherries for Burnley and, shortly after taking charge at Turf Moor in January 2011, he spent a reported £1.2million on the emerging talent.

Austin says Cherries' players will be playing under a top manager when Howe completes his sensational Dean Court comeback.

Speaking to the Daily Echo before confirmation of Howe's return, Austin said: “He is a great bloke to work for and he is someone that looks after you, on and off the pitch, which is a good thing.

“He wants to win and it is his aim to every game, just like the players. That is the kind of guy he is.”

Austin has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League after hitting 15 goals in just 12 games under Howe this term.

The 23-year-old added: “He has been a big part of my career. He took me from Swindon to Burnley and paid big money for an untested Championship player. I am grateful for what he has done for me.”