Eddie Howe has been tipped for a return to Bournemouth as manager despite distancing himself from the vacant hotseat.

The Burnley boss is now odds-on favourite to take charge of the League One outfit following reports that chairman Eddie Mitchell has influenced a change of heart.

Howe spent several seasons with the Cherries during his playing career and managed them between 2008 and 2011 before taking over at Turf Moore.

The club is now on the verge of welcoming him back as a replacement for the ousted Paul Groves, Sky Sports News claims.