Newcastle have confirmed that Eddie Howe has resumed his duties as manager after being forced to step back having been hospitalised with pneumonia. Howe had been forced to miss three matches in total, with the Magpies smashing Manchester United and Crystal Palace before being hammered by Aston Villa in his absence.
Assistant boss Jason Tindall stepped up as interim boss, with first-team coach Graeme Jones assisting him. Howe had been recovering his strength at home after leaving hospital last week.
He returned to the club’s training ground earlier this week, taking training on Wednesday. The boss has reported no ill effects since returning and feels ready to resume his duties.
The Toon sit fifth in the Premier League, enough to qualify for the Champions League next season. There are five matches remaining though, with the race for the top five set to go down to the wire.
Ahead of Saturday’s visit of Ipswich Town, Newcastle have confirmed that Howe will be back in the dugout. They paid tribute to their supporters for the warm wishes extended to their manager.
A club statement read: “Newcastle United are delighted to confirm that Eddie Howe has returned to his duties at the club’s Training Centre. Eddie had recently been hospitalised with pneumonia and has now returned to work after a period of recovery. We thank supporters for their warm wishes.”
After his diagnosis was revealed, Howe thanked the NHS staff who had treated him and made it clear he was aiming to be back quickly. He said: “A huge thank you to everyone connected with Newcastle United and the wider football community for your messages and warm wishes.
“They have meant a lot to me and my family. I also want to pay tribute to our incredible NHS and the hospital staff who have treated me. I’m immensely grateful for the specialist care I’m receiving and, after a period of recovery, I look forward to being back as soon as possible.”
Tindall admitted after the defeat to Aston Villa that he was unsure when Howe would be able to return to work. He said: “Until I’m told otherwise, then obviously that (taking charge of the team) is my duty and what I have to do.
“I’ve said it before, the most important thing for Ed is that he rests and he recovers. The more he does that, then the sooner he’ll be able to come and lead the team again.
“I’m not sure if there is any contact there, but as soon as there is any more news, then I’m sure the media team will update on that.” Tindall also admitted: “I certainly miss him, even more so on days like this.”
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