2025-04-25T08:49:14Z

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Newcastle Uniteds manager, Eddie Howe, has publicly expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the swift actions of club doctor Paul Catterson after he was diagnosed with pneumonia two weeks ago. The 47-year-old coach was hospitalized on April 11 after experiencing ill health over the course of several days. This unexpected health crisis led to Howe missing three crucial matches for the Magpies as the team navigated a critical phase in the Premier League.

After a challenging recovery period, Howe returned to his managerial duties on Thursday, expressing relief and gratitude for his recovery. In a statement made on Friday, he remarked, Without that quick intervention, it possibly could've had a different outcome. His acknowledgment highlights the critical role that timely medical intervention can play in preventing potentially serious complications.

Reflecting on his health struggles leading up to the diagnosis, Howe candidly shared, I felt really bad, but I didn't know how bad. He went on to discuss a common mindset among many men, indicating that he initially dismissed his symptoms, thinking, Oh, I'll be OK in a couple of days, I'll fight through it. This sentiment resonates with many who often hesitate to seek medical help until symptoms become severe.

While he admits that he is not yet back to full physical health, Howe feels mentally equipped to lead the team once more. Im not 100% in my body but I like to think Im close to 100% in my mind, which is the most important thing, he emphasized. The emotional toll of his illness has been significant, but he is optimistic about his path to recovery. Ive been through a range of emotions but I feel like Im on the road to recovery, he added.

As Newcastle sits in a solid fifth place in the Premier League standings, the team is gearing up to face Ipswich at St James' Park this Saturday. Howe took a moment to reflect on the challenges posed by his recent health issues but also noted the importance of finding positivity in difficult experiences. He stated, Your health you take for granted - I certainly have - and when you don't have the luxury of feeling normal, it can be very difficult.

During his absence, assistant manager Jason Tindall and fellow coach Graeme Jones stepped up to lead the team, achieving two wins and one defeat in the Premier League. Howe acknowledged their efforts, stating that he had zero involvement in match strategies or decisions while he was unwell. I made a conscious decision, when I didn't feel well enough to focus on the football, to give Jason and all the coaches full responsibility, he explained. For me, you're either all in or all out - and I couldn't contribute. So, I said to Jason right at the start, 'it's over to you.' And didn't he do well?

Despite feeling mentally detached during the matches he watched, Howe expressed pride in his teams performances, particularly their victories over Manchester United and Crystal Palace, while also acknowledging the disappointment of the defeat to Aston Villa. First two, I wasn't really there mentally, he admitted, but I was really proud and so lifted by the performances. His return is highly anticipated as Newcastle looks to maintain their competitive form in the league.