EDDIE Howe does not believe there is a secret to longevity in managerial positions but insisted: “Hard work is an absolute must.”

The Cherries boss is the longest serving manager in the Premier League, having been at the helm during his second spell in charge of the Dorset club for more than seven years.

Only Wycombe’s Gareth Ainsworth has been manager at one club longer at present in England’s top four divisions.

Howe told Sky Sports: “I’m not sure there’s a secret to longevity as a manager in one role, but hard work is an absolute must. To do any job properly and to the best of your ability, I think you really need to dedicate yourself to it.

“I’ve tried to do that every day. I’ve tried to do the best that I can for AFC Bournemouth. I think that’s vitally important – I’ve never worked for myself, but always for the club.

“I’ve just worked day to day – I haven’t set out with any great plans to be here forever or for a long time. I’ve just tried to do my best day by day and then seen where it would take me. That’s where I currently am.”