Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is undergoing tests in hospital after falling ill on Friday night. The 47-year-old is believed to be conscious and talking with family, but he is set to miss Manchester United‘s visit to the north-east on Sunday afternoon.

The Magpies have released a statement, which reads: “Eddie Howe will miss tomorrow’s game against Manchester United due to illness. The Magpies’ head coach was admitted to hospital late on Friday evening having felt unwell for a number of days. Everyone at Newcastle United extends their best wishes to Eddie for a speedy recovery, and further updates will follow in due course.”

Concerns were first raised about Howe when he pulled out of his media duties on Friday. Assistant manager Jason Tindall took his place and said that he hoped his right-hand man would be back in time for this weekend’s important match.

“He’s been really poorly – bed-ridden,” said Tindall. “We’ve been in daily contact but it’s not affected any of the preparations. We’ve still got a few days and hopefully he’ll be back for the weekend.”

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