Newcastle boss recovering in hospital from pneumonia and will miss two more games through illness

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has thanked fans and said he is “immensely grateful” to hospital staff after the club announced the 47-year-old has been diagnosed with pneumonia.

Howe, who led Newcastle to their first major trophy since 1955 by winning the EFL Cup last month, missed the Magpies’ 4-1 Premier League home win over Manchester United on Sunday and will be absent for their games at home to Crystal Palace and away to Aston Villa this week.

“A huge thank you to everyone connected with Newcastle United and the wider community for your messages and warm wishes,” Howe said in his first message since being taken ill.

“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.”

Eddie Howe illness: ‘Hugely missed’

Assistant managers Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones guided Newcastle to a first league double over the Red Devils since the 1930/31 season at St James’ Park on Sunday.

Howe had missed three days’ training and his pre-match press conference, when Tindall said the former Bournemouth manager had been “really poorly”, before going to hospital for tests on Friday.

“I’ve just seen a message from Eddie congratulating us on the performance and the victory,” Tindall said after Newcastle went fourth in the table. “He was able to watch the game and I’m sure it has lifted his spirits.

“Eddie and I have been working together for 17 years and I don’t think he’s ever missed more than a day or two in that time.

“I had a text message from Eddie before the game that he put his trust in myself to do what I thought was right. I sent him a couple of messages today to say that he was hugely missed. He’s one of the best managers there is.”

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is the name given to the inflammation of the lungs and is usually caused by infections such as flu, a cold or other viruses.

Most sufferers are treated with antibiotics and take two to four week to get better, with rest and plenty of fluids among the guidance advised for recovering.

“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,” added Howe.

Eddie Howe in hospital: Newcastle support

Newcastle said they would have “further updates to be communicated in due course”, adding: “The club continues to extend its best wishes to Eddie and his family as he continues his recovery,” they said.