Newcastle United has informed that coach Eddie Howe is suffering from pneumonia and will miss the club's forthcoming matches against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa.

Newcastle United's manager Eddie Howe applauds the supporters after the English Football League Cup semifinal 1st leg match between Arsenal and Newcastle United in London, Britain, Jan. 7, 2025. (Xinhua)

The club had previously confirmed on Saturday that 47-year-old Howe had been taken to hospital on Friday night, but without explaining what he has been suffering from.

"Newcastle United can announce that Eddie Howe is recovering in hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia," commented the club on its website, adding "the club continues to extend its best wishes and support to Eddie and his family as he continues his recovery. Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones will lead the team against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa this week, with further updates to be communicated in due course."

Tindall and Jones directed Newcastle for Sunday's 4-1 win at home to Manchester United that lifts Newcastle to fourth place in the Premier League.

Howe watched the match on TV and sent a message of thanks to "everyone connected with Newcastle United and the wider football community for your messages and warm wishes. 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. 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," he said.