Eddie Howe to be given Freedom of Newcastle after Carabao Cup final triumph
by Daniel Holland · ChronicleLiveEddie Howe will be awarded the Freedom of Newcastle after leading the Magpies to cup final glory.
The 47-year-old masterminded a 2-1 triumph over runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final to secure Newcastle United’s first domestic trophy since 1955. He is now in line to receive the highest civic honour that the city can bestow and one that has also been conferred on a handful of legendary figures in Newcastle’s football history – including Sir Bobby Robson, Alan Shearer and Jackie Milburn.
City council leader Karen Kilgour confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that she would put him forward for the Freedom of the City, following news on Monday that Blyth-born cup final goalscorer Dan Burn will be given the Freedom of Northumberland. Coun Kilgour said: “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.
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“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.
“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.”
Howe was appointed manager in 2021 following the club’s takeover, led by Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF), and guided the team away from the threat of relegation. The West Sussex-born manager, who had previously managed Bournemouth and Burnley, guided his team to qualify for the Champions League in his first full season in charge.
Newcastle fell short after reaching the League Cup final in 2023 when they lost to Manchester United, but returned to Wembley two years later to end Geordies’ 70-year wait for a domestic trophy. Howe's latest honour is expected to be formally confirmed at a full council meeting later this year.
Other recipients of the Honorary Freedom of Newcastle include former NUFC goalkeeper Shaka Hislop, ex-chairman Freddy Shepherd, Great North Run founder Sir Brendan Foster, and England rugby legend Jonny Wilkinson. The club itself was also awarded the Freedom of the City in the 1990s after celebrating its centenary.
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