Plans have been announced by Newcastle United to grant Eddie Howe the Freedom of the City of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Councillor Karen Kilgour, the leader of Newcastle City Council, has nominated Howe for the Council’s most prestigious award in the wake of Newcastle’s Carabao Cup victory over Liverpool on Sunday.
This would mark the second occasion on which Howe has been awarded Honourary Freeman status by a local council for his contributions to football. In 2019, he was granted the Freedom of the Borough of Bournemouth. Between 2009 and 2015, Howe guided The Cherries from the bottom of League Two to the Premier League. He departed the club in 2020 and was appointed Newcastle’s manager the following year.
On Tuesday evening, Newcastle officially declared Howe’s potential Freedom of the City status after he led the team to its first major domestic trophy in 70 years with a 2-1 victory at Wembley Stadium.
Coun Kilgour stated, “Eddie’s accomplishments at Newcastle United are nothing short of extraordinary, and I am thrilled to recommend him for the Freedom of the City.”
The fortunes of Newcastle United have a significant impact on the lives of supporters in Newcastle and around the globe, including myself. The club is an integral part of the fabric of our city.
“Generations of supporters have never witnessed their beloved club win a domestic trophy, and under his leadership, we all have cherished memories of a truly unforgettable day.”
“He not only secured the Carabao Cup, but also guided Newcastle towards a more promising future as he stabilised the team after his arrival.” The disappointment of the 2023 final did not persist; rather, it served as a catalyst for him, his team, the players, and the supporters to strive for greater success.
“He has conducted himself with dignity and grace throughout his tenure, remaining modest in his accomplishments and composed in the presence of any obstacles.”
“He will forever be a hero to our city and I’m incredibly proud to do my bit to recognise his accomplishments.”
Ratification by the members of the council at a complete council meeting is required for the Freedom of the City nominations.
Eddie would join other distinguished Newcastle United figures, such as Alan Shearer, Sir Bobby Robson, and Shaka Hislop, in obtaining the recognition should his nomination be approved, according to the club statement.
After commemorating its centenary year in the 1990s, the club was granted the Freedom of the City.
“The Honorary Freeman status is the most prestigious honour that the council can bestow upon an exceptional individual or group.” The walls of the Banqueting Hall in the Civic Centre are inscribed with the names of all honorary freemen.
Eddie Howe denies his status as a “legend”
Newcastle’s official social media accounts have referred to Howe as a “legend” of the club in the wake of the Carabao Cup victory. He is the first Newcastle manager to secure a significant trophy since Joe Harvey in 1969, when he won the Fairs Cup.
However, Howe promptly denied any notion that he was a “legend” in the immediate aftermath of his trophy victory.
“Please refrain from placing ourselves in that category,” Howe responded. “I believe that we will allow others to make that decision when we are likely long gone from the football club. However, I believe that our obligation is to provide our best effort on a daily basis, and that will never change.”
“That will not change at this time, and we must represent the club in the appropriate manner, which I believe these players have done exceptionally well.” They exhibit a high level of professionalism. I advise them to refrain from maintaining a professional demeanour tonight and to focus on the present moment rather than tomorrow. We will later consider the future.
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