Andrew Howard's influence has been one of the main reasons behind Wanderers’ success so far this season, according to the man who has worked under one of the most eccentric chairmen that English football has ever seen.

Gareth Ainsworth took his first steps in management at QPR when placed in caretaker charge during the 2008/09 season by trigger happy Italian Flavio Briatore, and featured in ‘The Four Year Plan’ documentary which highlighted the strong influence exerted by the R’s now former chairman.

At Wycombe the 41-year-old has stability and trust from Howard – who replaced Don Woodward as Blues Chairman in July last year – which he demonstrated by handing Ainsworth a new five-year contract in December.

“The relationship I have with Andrew is excellent,” said the Wanderers boss.

“We’re very honest with each other, very transparent, there are no secrets and I think the manager-chairman relationship is the most important relationship in any club.

“I see some managers have to play it up, but there’s no reason I would have to do that with Andrew Howard.

“He’s a great chairman I’m very lucky as a manager to have someone like that, and I think he’s one of the main reasons why Wycombe Wanderers have done so well this season. He’s very humble and he’ll be the first to give credit to other areas.”

Fans that went to the Prostate Cancer UK Stadium on Tuesday night might have spotted the pair talking on the side of the pitch as the players warmed up – a sight which has been common place at grounds around the country this season. Howard’s commitment to his manager is clear, and Ainsworth hopes to be able to repay the belief shown in him throughout his tenure at Adams Park.

He said: “To put faith in someone is fantastic, but I also think it’s his business background that’s told him nothing is ever achieved very quickly or overnight.

“People who want overnight success are looking at the wrong club and it’s not going to happen here. I think longevity is the key and hopefully he’s recognised my work rate and commitment to him will be over that contract period.

“There’s no way I’ll be giving anything less than 100 per cent while Andrew Howard is chairman.”