After links to Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry, AFC Bournemouth have given their head coach job to Jonathan Woodgate.

AFC Bournemouth have announced that Jonathan Woodgate has agreed a short-term deal to take over as the club’s head coach until the end of the season. He was already in the role in an interim capacity, but he’s now taken over properly.

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Both Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry were reportedly in the frame at various points in the selection process, but Bournemouth decided to stick with Woodgate instead.

In fairness, the 41-year-old did a good job as interim boss. He helped Bournemouth to three wins in his first four games, drawing the other.

They did then lose their fifth match to QPR, but Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake argues it “was a display which deserved a better result”.

Bournemouth are still hanging onto a play-off place as things stand. They’re three points clear of Cardiff City in seventh, though Barnsley could cut the gap to one point if they win their game in hand.

Woodgate will hope for help from another former Gunner in the remainder of the season, with Jack Wilshere becoming a starter after his January free transfer. He’s already scored two goals and assisted one in his seven appearances from midfield.