Eddie Howe is poised to return for Newcastle United in this weekend’s clash with Ipswich Town after missing the last three Premier League games through pneumonia. The Magpies head coach has been at the club’s Benton base this week after two weeks away from the club.
In a short statement released on Thursday morning, United said: “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.”
The news is a huge boost for a United side firmly locked in a fierce battle for a top five finish come the end of the season. Howe’s return will see Jason Tindall return to his post as No2 after overseeing two wins and one defeat during his temporary stint in the hotseat.
“Until I’m told otherwise, then obviously that [taking charge of the team] is my duty and what I have to do,” Tindall told reporters moments after the defeat to Aston Villa last weekend. “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.”
Howe was taken into hospital days after initially falling ill before the clash with Manchester United in mid-April. Since then, Tindall has been flanked by Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches, Simon Weatherstone and other backroom staff to oversee the transition.
United romped to victory against Manchester United and Crystal Palace, both at St James’ Park, but were comfortably dispatched by Aston Villa over the weekend. The result leaves the north east outfit fifth in the Premier League table, two points adrift of third position.
In a message following his diagnosis, Howe 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,” the Newcastle boss said.
“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.”
