Newcastle United head coach, Eddie Howe has been nominated for Newcastle’s Freedom of the City award, following the Magpies’ Carabao Cup success.
Howe arrived at the club in November 2o21 following Steve Bruce’s sacking in the wake of a Saudi Arabian takeover and led the Magpies to UEFA Champions League qualification at end of his first full season in charge.
Newcastle however exited the competition in the group phase but went on to bigger success this season, which saw them end a 70-year wait for domestic silverware with a 2-1 win over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup Final.
Howe’s achievement prompted Newcastle City councillor, Karen Kilgour to put him forward for the Freedom of the City award, which could see him join Alan Shearer, Sir Bobby Robson and others amongst Newcastle stars to receive the award.
Addressing her decision to nominate Howe, Kilgour reflected on his work to help the club progress since he arrived and impact of his achievement in the Carabao Cup upon generations of supporters.
“What Eddie has achieved during his time at Newcastle United is nothing short of extraordinary and I’m delighted to nominate him for Freedom of the City.
“Newcastle United is part of the fabric of our city with the fortunes of the club playing a huge part in the lives of supporters in Newcastle and across the world, myself included.
“Generations of supporters have never seen their beloved club lift a domestic trophy, and under his leadership we all now have treasured memories of a truly unforgettable day.
“More than winning the Carabao Cup, he steadied the ship following his arrival and steered Newcastle towards a brighter future. The disappointment of 2023’s final didn’t fester, it simply galvanised him and his team, the players, and supporters to push to go further.”
Kilgour went on to speak of Howe’s attitude towards various challenges from European football to rumours about his future and more throughout his time at the club.
“Throughout his tenure he has handled himself with grace and dignity, being modest in success and measured in the face of any challenges.
“He will forever be a hero to our city and I’m incredibly proud to do my bit to recognise his accomplishments.”
