Eddie Howe will not be in the dugout for Newcastle United’s crucial Premier League fixture against Manchester United on Sunday after being admitted to hospital with an undisclosed illness.
The 47-year-old was taken in late on Friday evening after feeling unwell for several days. While the club has not specified the nature of the illness, they confirmed that Howe is “conscious and talking with his family” and is undergoing further tests under medical supervision.
In an official club statement, Newcastle said:
“The Magpies’ head coach was admitted to hospital late on Friday evening having felt unwell for a number of days.
Medical staff kept Eddie in hospital overnight for further tests, which are ongoing. He is conscious and talking with his family, and is continuing to receive expert medical care.”
Assistant Jason Tindall, who took Howe’s place in the pre-match press conference, provided an update:
“He’s been really poorly. Bed-ridden. We’ve been in daily contact but it’s not affected any of the preparations.”
Newcastle go into the weekend seventh in the Premier League and just one point behind fifth-placed Aston Villa, aiming to close in on a Champions League spot. They’ve already secured Europa League football after their Carabao Cup triumph last month.
Striker Alexander Isak is expected to be available, while a late decision will be made on Anthony Gordon. Manchester United, meanwhile, could start Kobbie Mainoo, who made his return from injury in midweek.
All eyes will be on St. James’ Park, but thoughts from across football will also be with Eddie Howe as he recovers.