Howe had missed three Premier League games due to illness, but is now expected to be available for the run-in
Newcastle United have confirmed that manager Eddie Howe has returned to work following a brief period in hospital with pneumonia.
The 46-year-old, who had been sidelined for three matches, resumed his duties at the club’s Benton training centre this week.
This comes as a boost for the Magpies as they head into the run-in, locked in a tight contest with four other clubs for the three remaining Champions League qualification spots in the Premier League.
While the club stopped short of confirming whether Howe would be back in the dugout for Saturday’s clash against Ipswich Town, his presence at training signals a significant step in his recovery.
During Howe’s absence, assistant coach Jason Tindall led the team to convincing back-to-back wins over Manchester United and Crystal Palace, before themselves receiving a sobering 4-1 defeat to Aston Villa last weekend.
“Newcastle United are delighted to confirm that Eddie Howe has returned to his duties at the club’s Training Centre,” said the club in a statement.
“Eddie had recently been hospitalised with pneumonia and has now returned to work after a period of recovery.”
The timing of Howe’s return could prove pivotal. With just four games left in the season, Newcastle remain fifth in the table, clinging to a narrow two-point lead over Chelsea and Aston Villa.
Manchester City and Nottingham Forest are third and fourth respectively. City have played one more game though, and Newcastle could claim third position with a win over Ipswich on Saturday.
