Speaking of Eddie Howe, Newcastle United’s manager recently clarified the details of why he rejected the Celtic job in the summer of 2021. Even though he wanted to be accused of ‘bottling’ the opportunity, Howe clarified to Simon Jordan that his reserve was not in any way because he did not want the esteemed position.
Speaking of the situation, Howe admitted that although he wanted to take charge of Celtic, and he was taken aback by the club and everyone he met, he was met with a challenge when it came to hiring his desired backroom staff. Stating the need to bring his close supporters with him, including Jason Tindall, Steven Purchase, Simon Weatherstone, and Dan Hodges, Howe decided to only join the club when he is fully surrounded by his loyal team.
This exchange gives us some insight on how Howe was thinking during that particular time and helps one understand more of the context that led to the end result.
I have already made my mind to go but could not rallying the team’s support until I spoke to Jason in Bournemouth. Although the student did not require all of them, the timeline of teamwork was essential. It was not ethical to take the offer which I felt would also not be ethical to do at Celtic. Thus, I declined the offer. Jordan’s comment appeared to be rather unkind for a husband, but this is all the media would know – getting to conclusions too quickly. What is required more is acceptance than resistances in such situations.
I had made my decision to go, but couldn’t unite the team’s consensus without Jason in Bournemouth. While not needing all of them, the teamwork dynamic felt pivotal. It didn’t align with my values to seize the opportunity, which I felt would also not be right for Celtic. Thus, I declined the offer. Jordan’s harsh observation seemed unjust, but such is the media’s nature—jumping to conclusions. Acceptance, not resistance, is vital in such situations.
