Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has revealed he is still recovering from a severe case of pneumonia, saying he is not yet “100 per cent” physically despite returning to the dugout.
Howe, 47, was hospitalised on 11 April after suffering symptoms for several days and subsequently missed three crucial Premier League fixtures against Manchester United, Crystal Palace, and Aston Villa.
Although he is not yet fully recovered, the Magpies boss was eager to return and reunite with his squad, who won the Carabao Cup earlier this season—the club’s first major silverware in over half a century.
“I’m OK. I’m not 100 per cent in my body, but I’d like to think I’m very close to 100 percent in my mind, which is the most important thing,” Howe told journalists on Friday.
Reflecting on the impact of his illness, he added: “I’ve tried to take a positive from every experience, but this has been a real challenge because you take your health for granted. I certainly have. And when you don’t feel normal, it can be very tough.
“I’ve definitely experienced a range of emotions, but thankfully I feel like I’m on the road to recovery – and I’m delighted to be here.”
In Howe’s absence, assistant coach Jason Tindall took charge, guiding the team to impressive victories over Manchester United and Crystal Palace before a 4-1 defeat away to Aston Villa.
Newcastle are currently fifth in the Premier League table, with Champions League qualification still within reach. Howe will be back on the touchline at St James’ Park for Saturday’s match against relegation-threatened Ipswich Town.
“For those first two games, I was involved as much as I could be. I wasn’t feeling well enough to enjoy the performances, but a big thank you to the players – they gave everything to get two massive wins,” Howe said.
“The staff acted brilliantly too, so credit to them. Now I’m back, I hope I can contribute again as we approach the final five games.”
Asked whether the illness could have become life-threatening had it not been addressed swiftly, Howe admitted he had delayed seeking help.
“I’m probably like most men – you think, ‘I’ll be fine in a couple of days, I’ll power through’. So I’m very thankful to the club doctor, Paul Catterson, for acting quickly. Without that intervention, the outcome might have been very different.”
Howe said he is not yet fit enough to join training sessions but is glad to have returned to his daily routine.
“I’ve come back in and it’s normal service resumed – just without the running around,” he joked. “Physically, I’m a lot more reserved and I think I’ll stay that way for a while, but mentally, I’m back.”
