Eddie Howe Illness: Newcastle Statement Followed by New Message from Jason Tindall

Jason Tindall has extended heartfelt thanks to Newcastle United fans on behalf of Eddie Howe in his programme notes ahead of the match against Crystal Palace.

Prior to the clash with Manchester United, the club confirmed that Howe would miss several fixtures due to his hospitalisation with pneumonia.

Newcastle also announced he would be unavailable for the matches against Aston Villa and Palace as he continues his recovery.

In the absence of the head coach, assistant managers Graeme Jones and Jason Tindall have stepped in to lead the team, including for last weekend’s game at Old Trafford.

The club has not set a date for Howe’s return, and it remains uncertain whether he will resume his duties before the end of the season.

In Wednesday’s matchday programme, Tindall wrote: “Firstly, on behalf of Eddie and his family, I’d like to say a massive thank you for the overwhelming support and kind messages following Eddie’s illness.

“Although I don’t have a concrete update to share, Eddie is receiving excellent care. The most important thing is that he returns only when he feels completely ready.

In the 17 years we’ve worked together, we’ve only been apart on a matchday twice – and both instances have occurred here at Newcastle.

“The first was our home debut against Brentford in 2021, when Eddie tested positive for COVID-19.

The second was the recent win at Manchester United.

“When someone so integral to our group is missing, it’s definitely felt.

We all missed Eddie – his leadership, his presence – both in our preparations and on the day of the game.

But the expectations at this club remain the same, and the players have shown their usual professionalism.

“I have to commend everyone – the players and staff – for pulling together. Sunday’s performance was exactly what we hoped for.

The team executed our plans perfectly and earned a result that Eddie could be proud of.”

Tindall ended his message by reinforcing the team’s goals for the rest of the campaign: “We’re fully aware of the standards required tonight and in our final seven games. Our objective is clear – to deliver performances and results that make Eddie, and all of you, proud.”

Earlier this week, Newcastle released an official statement regarding Howe’s condition:

“Newcastle United can confirm that Eddie Howe is recovering in hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia.

The club sends its best wishes to Eddie and his family as he continues his recovery.

In the meantime, Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones will take charge for the upcoming fixtures against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa. Further updates will follow in due course.”