"I need to give myself more care"

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is set to return to the touchline this weekend after recovering from pneumonia, marking the end of a challenging period for the 47-year-old. Howe, who was hospitalised earlier this month, missed three crucial matches but has now resumed his duties at the club’s training ground ahead of Newcastle’s clash with Ipswich Town.

Speaking in his first press conference since his illness, Howe reflected on the experience, admitting that he had underestimated the severity of his condition. "I felt really bad," he said. "I planned to come back to training ahead of the Manchester United game. I had a shower and was getting ready to go, but something was telling me, ‘No, you need to go back to bed.’ That was the moment things changed".

Howe credited Newcastle’s club doctor for acting swiftly, ensuring he received the necessary medical attention. "Without the quick intervention, it could have had a different outcome," he acknowledged. "The care that I received from the NHS was first class". Despite his eagerness to return, Howe admitted that the experience had given him a new perspective on his health and well-being. "The last few weeks have been a real challenge. When you get to where I was, you see life through different eyes," he said. "My takeaway is I need to give myself a bit more care and love if I can, and give more thought to what I’m doing".

Newcastle fans will be relieved to see their manager back in action, especially as the club continues its push for Champions League qualification. Howe’s return comes at a crucial time, with Newcastle sitting fifth in the Premier League table and looking to bounce back from their recent defeat to Aston Villa. With Howe back at the helm, Newcastle will be hoping to secure a strong finish to the season. His return not only boosts the team’s morale but also reinforces the importance of prioritizing health—even in the high-pressure world of football management.