Howe to miss first game as Newcastle boss due to Covid-19

New Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe will miss his first game in charge of the club after testing positive for Covid-19 on Friday.

The Magpies, who are 19th in the Premier League, host Brentford on Saturday.

Assistant head coaches Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones will take charge of the team in Howe’s absence.

“I’m very disappointed that I won’t be there with you all at St James’ Park tomorrow,” Howe said.

Howe was appointed earlier this month, following the Saudi Arabia-led takeover of the club, but will now have to wait for his first public appearance as Magpies boss while he isolates.

UK government guidance is that anyone with a positive test must isolate at home for 10 days, meaning Howe would also miss Newcastle’s league match at Arsenal on 27 November.