Eddie Howe Set to Return Before Season’s End — But Only If Fully Recovered

Newcastle United have confirmed that manager Eddie Howe will miss the upcoming Premier League fixtures against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa after being hospitalised with pneumonia.

However, there is no guarantee that he will return in time for the following match against Ipswich Town at St James’ Park.

According to NHS guidance, recovery from pneumonia typically takes between two to four weeks.

Given the demanding nature of Howe’s position and the pressure to perform during this crucial stage of the season, his condition will be monitored daily, with no set date for his return.

Both Howe and assistant manager Jason Tindall have expressed their desire to reunite on the touchline as soon as possible, once Howe has sufficiently recovered.

Tindall revealed that communication with Howe has been limited since the manager was admitted to hospital last Friday.

As a result, Howe will not be involved in the preparation or execution of the next two games, with Tindall continuing to lead training sessions and manage the team.

Speaking ahead of the Palace match, Tindall said, “We’ve had minimal dialogue since the announcement, but Eddie is in the best possible hands.

He’ll return when he feels ready and is fully fit to lead the team again.

Health comes first, and when Eddie does come back, we want to make sure he’s 100% and able to do what he does best every day. I’m confident he’ll make a full recovery.”

With seven Premier League matches remaining this season, Newcastle currently sit fifth in the table.

A positive result against Crystal Palace could lift them to third and strengthen their position in the race for Champions League qualification.