Newcastle United assistant head coach Jason Tindall has stepped in to lead the team whilst manager Eddie Howe recovers from pneumonia and could remain in charge until the end of the season.
Howe, 47, was taken to hospital on Friday evening after feeling unwell for several days and now faces a spell away from the club following his diagnosis.
The Magpies boss remains hospitalised on Tyneside, with Tindall and coach Graeme Jones taking charge of the team in his absence.
Newcastle secured an impressive 4-1 victory over Manchester United on Sunday despite Howe’s absence.
Jason Tindall is ready to step up in Eddie Howe’s absence
Sky Sports
Tindall has made it clear there is no definitive timeline for Howe’s return to the dugout.
“There is no exact timeframe. That is something we will assess day by day,” said Tindall. “He will only come back when he is ready to come back and it will be on the guidance of the people taking care of him.”
The assistant head coach emphasised that Howe’s health must take priority.
“He’s not a silly guy, Eddie, he’ll take notice of what’s said to him and he’ll make sure he’s fully recovered when he comes back.”
Tindall, who has worked alongside Howe for 17 years, is prepared to lead Newcastle for the remainder of the season if required.
“As and when called upon I am here to step into the shoes,” he stated.
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The long-time assistant has challenged the players to maintain their high standards during Howe’s absence.
“The players will have to stand up and be counted in the remaining games whether the manager’s here or not,” Tindall said.
“The players know the expectations, the standards and it’s down to everyone to maintain them.”
Newcastle currently sit just one point behind third-placed Nottingham Forest with a game in hand as they pursue Champions League qualification.
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Jason Tindall oversaw Newcastle’s 4-1 win over United at the weekend
A victory against Crystal Palace at St James’ Park on Wednesday would see the Carabao Cup winners leapfrog Forest into third place.
Tindall will also lead the team for Saturday’s trip to Aston Villa.
With seven games remaining, a top-five finish – which would secure a place in Europe’s top table – remains well within the Magpies’ grasp.
Howe reportedly watched Sunday’s match against Manchester United from his hospital bed.
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Eddie Howe remains in hospital as he recovers from pneumonia
Reuters
Tindall revealed he has not spoken directly with Howe since his hospitalisation, with the manager only well enough to exchange brief text messages.
“The most important thing for the manager is to rest and recover and not worry about anything other than getting better,” Tindall explained.
He hopes to have a conversation with his long-standing friend “in the next couple of days” as Howe continues his recovery.
Newcastle’s focus remains clear – maintain their impressive form whilst ensuring their manager makes a full recovery.