EDDIE Howe admits he found it "very difficult" to manage a team against Cherries, and thanked the travelling fans for their reaction towards him.

Cherries legend Howe came up against his former club for the first time in his career, leading out Newcastle United at St James' Park.

The game ended all-square, with Philip Billing's opener cancelled out by an Alexander Isak penalty in a 1-1 draw.

Throughout the afternoon, Cherries fans showed their affection for Howe, with chants and applause from the top tier of the stadium.

Howe clapped back as he did a lap of the pitch after the game, with Cherries fans continuing to sing his name.

In the build-up to the contest, Howe said it would be a "special game" for him.

Asked what it was like to face Cherries, having now experienced trying to mastermind a victory over the club where he achieved so much, Howe told the Daily Echo: "Very difficult.

"I sort of tried to blank everything out and concentrate on the game.

"My all and everything was with Newcastle today.

"But I really appreciated the Bournemouth supporters’ reaction to me. That meant a great deal, so a big thank you to them. It was much appreciated."

Howe brings his Newcastle side to Vitality Stadium for what is likely to be an emotional homecoming in February.