Gary O'Neills comments on an impressive comeback victory from the Cherries versus Leicester, including talk on upcoming takeover of Bill Foley.
With new prospective owner Bill Foley in attendance at the Vitality ahead of sealing a £120m takeover of the Cherries, Gary O’Neill’s side showed why the American was correct in his interest as they defeated Leicester from behind.
Goals from Ryan Christie and Phillip Billing completed a fully deserved comeback victory which now makes it five games without defeat.
Speaking to the media after the game, O’Neill expressed his delight with the attitude and performance of his side:
“I was delighted with the whole performance.
“I was happy with all aspects. We were brave with the ball, played through the lines, caused Leicester problems with the ball, patient and managed to keep the ball even though you’re one nil down.
“I credit the boys on the response and the way they went about things.
“Two nil down at Forest at half-time, respond and comeback. One nil down at home to Leicester, respond and comeback.
“(There is) big belief in the group; those two results and turnaround show you.”
With the occasion being a special one with Mr Foley in attendance, it was impossible to not have O’Neill comment on the likely new owner.
“I hope he enjoyed it.
“It made no difference to me or the boys. We are fully focused on what needs to happen in the changing room and take out on the pitch.”
O’Neill also confirmed that Foley took himself to the changing room at the end of the game to personally congratulate the team on the victory. A touch of class from the new forecasted owner.
When questioned on his future, the Cherries temporary Head Coach left no question on his passion for the club and role he currently holds:
“No idea.
“I haven’t put any thought into the job, what this means for my future. I set out nine years ago to be a football manager and I still want to be a football manager. I’m enjoying it.
“Every week I want to put more points on the board for Bournemouth and help what is a special club and help them stay up in the Premier League for another season.”
Since taking the reigns in a ‘temporary’ capacity, O’Neill is yet to lose and has demonstrated his ability to bring the squad together and produce results as they have.
It seems fair to think that there is a strong possibility O’Neill remains in charge until the Premier League departs for the World Cup in November. The board will most definitely be grateful for the work he has done to put the Cherries in ninth place, and to have the squad play with belief and strong character.