Eddie Howe revitalised by Bournemouth return

Eddie Howe says his life is now back in balance following his return to Bournemouth as manager.

The 34-year-old quit Burnley for personal reasons last month to drop a division and return to the Cherries for a second spell in charge.

But the married father of one, who was raised in Dorset, says the decision has so far proved to be the correct one.

"It has had a big impact on me personally and those closest to me," Howe told BBC Sport.

"It was a difficult decision from my perspective, I had a lot to think about.

"I came back first and foremost for my family and for personal reasons."

His return to Bournemouth has also coincided with an upturn in fortunes on the pitch, the club having picked up six wins in a seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

"Thankfully it's been a great start and that does make the decision seem right at this stage," he said.

"It was a long-term view taken by me - and I had to protect those closest to me - and hopefully we can keep this good run going.

"It's been a difficult few months for me off the pitch and I think this has been the right call."

Bournemouth's recent results have seen them shoot up the League One table to 12th place and they are just five points short of the play-off places.

And Howe believes if they can continue their form a promotion challenge may be a possibility.

"Thankfully our results have been good and we have climbed the table but we've still got a bit of work to do because we are playing catch up.

"We are still behind a lot of the fancied teams in the division but if we can continue to pick up points in the short term then who knows?"

Howe has been further encouraged by the ambition of co-owner Max Demin at a series of meetings between the pair.

"Max is very passionate about the football club, he's invested heavily to make this club a success and he wants to take the club forward," added Howe.

"I've had really good meetings and I am very encouraged by his outlook for the club. I haven't really dug too deep into long-term investment into the playing side because I am happy with the squad we have here.

"Long-term we do have work to do and we do need to bring new players in, but currently we have a big squad and I am happy to work with the players we have."