Newcastle's Howe to miss further games after pneumonia diagnosis

Newcastle were without manager Eddie Howe, who was admitted to hospital on Friday after feeling unwell for several days, as assistants Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones took charge of the Carabao Cup winners in their Premier League win over Manchester United.

Harvey Barnes provided a welcome tonic for Howe as his second-half brace at St James' Park boosted Newcastle's bid to qualify for the Champions League, with midfielder Sandro Tonali and captain Bruno Guimaraes also scoring to seal the result at 4-1.

But the 47-year-old manager will now also miss Wednesday’s home match against Crystal Palace and Saturday’s trip to Aston Villa after being diagnosed with pneumonia. Tindall and Jones will therefore continue to lead the club for the two upcoming Premier League fixtures.

"Newcastle United can announce that Eddie Howe is recovering in hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia. The club continues to extend its best wishes and support to Eddie and his family as he continues his recovery," reads a statement from the club.

"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." Newcastle sit in fourth, holding a one-point cushion over Manchester City in fifth.