Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has officially returned to work after recovering from pneumonia, delivering a major lift for the club ahead of a pivotal Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town this weekend.

The 47-year-old was hospitalized earlier this month due to illness and missed three matches during his recovery. Assistant coaches Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones stepped in during his absence, guiding the team to wins over Manchester United and Crystal Palace before a heavy 4-1 defeat at Aston Villa.

Howe rejoined the squad at the training ground this week and is expected to be on the touchline at St James’ Park on Saturday. The club issued a short statement confirming his return:
“Eddie had recently been hospitalised with pneumonia and has now returned to work after a period of recovery. We thank supporters for their warm wishes.”

Currently sitting fifth in the Premier League, Newcastle are in a tight race for Champions League qualification. They hold a game in hand over Aston Villa and could leapfrog both Manchester City and Nottingham Forest—who are on FA Cup duty this weekend—with a victory over struggling Ipswich.

Howe’s comeback is seen as a vital morale boost during the final stretch of the season. While Tindall and Jones impressed in his absence, Howe’s leadership has been central to Newcastle’s rise into the top five.

No confirmation has been made regarding who will lead the pre-match press conference on Friday, but club sources indicate that Howe has suffered no setbacks since returning to training duties.

In a personal message last week, Howe expressed gratitude to the NHS and fans:
“I’m immensely grateful for the specialist care I received and, after a period of recovery, I look forward to being back as soon as possible.”

Newcastle’s run-in includes fixtures against Brighton, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Everton after this weekend’s match at home to Ipswich.