Newcastle City Council recently approved a proposal to award Eddie Howe the Freedom of Newcastle, the highest award that the city council can give to an individual or group.

The move recognises Howe's outstanding contribution in leading Newcastle United to historic achievements, particularly his leadership of the team to win the Carabao Cup this year, ending the club's 70-year trophy drought.

Newcastle United won the Carabao Cup against Liverpool in the Wembley final on March 16. The victory was a major breakthrough for the club and the fans, with exciting celebrations taking place in London and outside St James' Park.

City council leader Cllr Karen Kilgour nominated Howe for the honour within 48 hours of the game, saying: "Eddie Howe will always be a Newcastle United hero whose contribution brought hope and belief to the city. Not least for the fans, who enjoyed a level of domestic trophy success they had not seen for 70 years."

"Eddie was more than just the man who brought the trophy back here, he was a fantastic ambassador for our city. Under Eddie's stewardship, the magic of the club is back and it will continue. We are now working with the club to arrange a celebration event to present Eddie with the award he so richly deserves."

Howe has been the head coach of Newcastle United since November 2021, helping the team return to the UEFA Champions League and successfully realizing the club's revival through steady leadership and tactical deployment. His demeanor, calmness and resilience have also won the respect of fans and players.

Howe will join Alan Shearer, Sir Bobby Robson and Jackie Milburn as Newcastle United legends and his name will be engraved on the wall of the City Hall Banqueting Hall alongside other recipients.