Newcastle boss Eddie Howe sent congratulations to his players from his hospital bed after watching them dismantle Manchester United to go fourth in the Premier League table.
The 47-year-old was admitted on Friday evening after being unwell for several days and was undergoing tests as his assistant Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones prepared the team for a key game.
In the event, the Magpies roared to a 4-1 victory at St James’ Park in Howe’s absence, but he was with them in spirit.
Asked if he had spoken to his former Bournemouth team-mate, Tindall said: “Yes, I had a message from him just before I came to do the press, congratulating the team on the performance and work from everybody.
“He was able to…