Lewis Hall has described playing under Eddie Howe as a 'true honour' after the former Newcastle United manager's exit from the club was confirmed. The England international was among the Newcastle players to publicly thank Howe following the announcement on Friday.
Howe's departure brought an end to a spell of more than four years in charge at St. James' Park. The former AFC Bournemouth boss said it had been the 'privilege of my lifetime to have been the manager of Newcastle United'. In a statement, the 48-year-old said: 'I feel that it is in the best interests of both myself and the club to step away, recharge and take a break.'
Player tributes
Hall posted on his Instagram story: 'A true honour to have played under you during your time here. Thank you will never be enough for everything you have done for me both on and off the pitch.'
Jacob Murphy also delivered a poignant message to Howe, saying: 'Thank you, Eddie. Thank you for changing all our lives. Thank you for uniting us, for your guidance and patience, and for leading us to glory. In you, we found hope, stability, and an identity that resonated through everyone in black and white. Forever one of our own. Thank you, gaffer.'
Bruno Guimaraes, a transfer target for Arsenal, also praised Howe. He posted: 'King of this club!! Thanks for everything you've done for us. I loved enjoying our time together. Thanks for making me a better player and person! No words I can say will really say how much I enjoyed being your player. Wish you all the very best in your future, gaffer.'
Successor and transfer links
Following Howe's exit, Newcastle's players continue to be linked with moves away. Guimaraes remains linked to Arsenal, while Manchester United are said to be exploring a deal for Hall, with a £60million fee touted for the full-back. Newcastle are already short in the position, however.
Matthias Jaissle, 38, is set to succeed Howe and lead Newcastle's La Manga training camp from this weekend, after joining from Al Ahli.
