The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said it would not comment on the matter. My dad saw a lot of the Lions in their heyday and loved Bertie's arrogance and confidence on the park as well as his humility off it. "The reality of it is that they're in a relegation battle, but he'll assess the situation, he'll think of the best way to get the best team out there on a matchday and get the best results possible as quickly as possible. Speaking to those who know him best, pressure is something Howe is unusually comfortable - and certainly familiar - in dealing with. When he took his first managerial role, at then League Two Bournemouth, Howe was warned by the owner the club would likely fall into liquidation if he did not keep them in the division, despite contending with a 17-point deduction awarded for serious financial issues.