It is six years since Eddie Howe returned to take charge of AFC Bournemouth for a second time and his current crop of players are universal in their praise for their manager.
The 40-year-old has overseen great progress since 12 October 2012, leading the Cherries from League One to the Premier League and establishing them as a top-flight club.
They are currently enjoying their best start to a Premier League season and will go into Saturday's match against Southampton in sixth place, having won five of their opening eight matches.
"The first thing you think about when you hear AFC Bournemouth is Eddie Howe," says forward Joshua King. "The fans love him. I think they all know what he's done for the club."
AFC Bournemouth are unable to spend as much as some of their top-flight rivals in the transfer market, so Howe’s ability to get the best out of his existing players has been key.
'He can make any player better'
"What sets Eddie apart is his man-management skills and his player development skills," says goalkeeper Asmir Begovic.
"How he wants to improve individuals and every single player in his team is incredible."
Ryan Fraser is one player who has come on in leaps and bounds this season thanks to Howe's management, scoring three goals and providing three assists.
"He can just make any player better and make them reach the next level," the winger says.
'He challenges us'
Charlie Daniels was at the club when Howe returned and says the motivation that Howe generates among his squad is the secret to their success.
"The way he's driven us, the way he coaches us, the way he challenges us is probably what's got us into the Premier League," the defender says.
"I don't think many other coaches would have had the same effect as Eddie Howe."
