Newcastle boss Eddie Howe releases first official statement after being diagnosed with pneumonia

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has released a statement after the club confirmed he has been diagnosed with pneumonia.

Howe missed the 4-1 win over Manchester United on Sunday after being taken to hospital on Friday.

It was confirmed that the 47-year-old had remained conscious and was talking to friends and family, having felt unwell 'for a number of days'.

His club have now announced that Howe has been diagnosed with pneumonia, and remains in hospital while he undergoes treatment.

He will miss upcoming matches against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa, with assistant Jason Tindall and first team coach Graeme Jones continuing to take charge in his absence.

Tindall revealed after the win over United that he had communicated with Howe on several occasions before the match - though added that the Newcastle boss 'put his trust in' his coaching staff to take charge without his input during the game itself.

In a statement following the announcement of his diagnosis, Howe said: "A huge thank you to everyone connected with Newcastle United and the wider football community for your messages and warm wishes. They have meant a lot to me and my family.

"I also want to pay tribute to our incredible NHS and the hospital staff who have treated me. I'm immensely grateful for the specialist care I'm receiving and, after a period of recovery, I look forward to being back as soon as possible."

Newcastle, meanwhile, stated: "The club continues to extend its best wishes and support to Eddie and his family as he continues his recovery. Get well soon, gaffer."

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia, as defined by the NHS, is an inflammation of the lungs which is commonly caused by a bacterial or viral infection.

Key symptoms include a cough, shortness of breath, a high temperature and chest pain, with most people getting better in between two to four weeks.

Hospital treatment can include fluids, antibiotics and, in some cases, the receiving of oxygen in order to aid breathing.

For more information, check out the NHS website here.