EDDIE Howe reflected on his “most challenging” season in management and admitted it had pushed him out of his comfort zone.

Howe guided Cherries to safety in the Premier League with two games to spare, capping a memorable campaign for the Vitality Stadium outfit.

It was also Howe’s first opportunity to manage in the top flight after cutting his teeth in all three tiers of the Football League.

Since his first appointment at Dean Court in January 2009, Howe has taken charge of 331 league games across all four divisions, plus 40 cup ties.

Asked by the Daily Echo what he had learned from the season, Howe replied: “Lots and lots and lots! It has been the most challenging season I have faced to date as a manager.

“Emotionally, physically, everything has been a real test and that is why it has been so good. Everyone, including the players and myself, has been pushed out of their comfort zone and have had to either sink or swim.

“Thankfully, we are still swimming so has been a great season and I have learned so much.

“What I have learned is probably best kept to myself but, on many different levels, hopefully we can take some things we have picked up into next season.”