Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has been hospitalized due to illness and will miss the club’s crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United on Sunday, the club announced in an official statement.

The 47-year-old coach was admitted late Friday evening after experiencing a period of illness over recent days. Newcastle have confirmed that Howe is conscious, in stable condition, and communicating with his family while receiving expert medical attention.

“Eddie is in hospital undergoing further assessment,” the club said. “He is conscious, in good spirits, and talking with his loved ones. Everyone at the club sends him their very best wishes.”

Howe’s sudden absence comes at a pivotal point in the season, as Newcastle currently sit seventh in the Premier League and remain in the hunt for Champions League qualification. Sunday’s showdown against Manchester United at St. James’ Park is viewed as a six-pointer in the race for Europe.

In Howe’s absence, assistant managers Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones will take charge of the first team, supported by the rest of the coaching staff. The club assured fans that preparations for the match have continued as planned and that players are fully focused heading into the fixture.

Howe, who has been at the helm since 2021, recently guided Newcastle to a League Cup victory ending a 56-year wait for major silverware. His leadership has been instrumental in transforming the Magpies into European contenders over the last two seasons.

No further details have been disclosed about the nature of Howe’s illness, but the club confirmed that medical updates will be provided “in due course.”

The thoughts of the football world are with Howe and his family as he recovers. Fans and fellow professionals have taken to social media to express their support, wishing the Newcastle boss a speedy return to the touchline.