Eddie Howe has not given up hope of leading Newcastle United out against Arsenal - here’s why

Eddie Howe has not lost hope of joining up with Newcastle United for their trip to Arsenal on Saturday afternoon.

The 43-year-old missed Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Brentford - his first game in charge - and has been absent from the training ground this week after testing positive for Covid-19.

However, there is hope he can be on the touchline at the Emirates - and here’s how:

What’s the current situation surrounding Eddie Howe?

Howe was forced to stay away from his St James’s Park welcome after receiving a positive Covid-19 late on Friday afternoon.

The former Bournemouth boss was still heavily involved in the decision-making however as he watched a live feed from his hotel room.

He was in constant contact with first-team coach Stephen Purches – making the final call to introduce Ryan Fraser from the bench, who assisted Allan Saint-Maximin equaliser.

Howe, whilst being absent from the training ground, has planned every session, reviewed all footage and communicated with players via phone.

Could Eddie Howe be in the dugout at Arsenal?

That’s the hope, something Newcastle assistant head coach Jason Tindall immediately said after the draw with Brentford.

“Hopefully, we can have Ed back before the Arsenal game,” Tindall said after the draw with Brentford.

“We’re just waiting on the doctor for that. That’s a little bit out of our hands and control. Ed will be a big influence on how we prepare.”

Tindall will face the media on Friday to preview the game against Arsenal.

So, what needs to happen for Eddie Howe to be at Arsenal?

NewcastleWorld understands Howe will be re-tested before the journey to the capital.

If the result comes back negative, it is believed that would be enough to allow Howe to lead Newcastle out for the first time.

Should Howe stay on Tyneside over the weekend, he is still expected to take charge of Tuesday’s relegation clash with Norwich City as that falls after the 10-day recommended self-isolation period.