Knighthood next? Eddie Howe to be awarded Freedom of the City of Newcastle-upon-Tyne after ending Magpies' 70-year trophy drought

The Magpies finally ended their 70-year domestic trophy drought last Sunday as they beat Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley to lift the Carabao Cup. Howe, who guided the club to the triumph at the home of football, is now all set to receive Newcastle Upon Tyne's highest honour: the Freedom of the City award. The leader of Newcastle City Council Karen Kilgour has submitted a nomination for Howe to be presented with the award.

Speaking to the club's official website, 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. 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."

She added: "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's nomination for Freedom of the City is now subject to the ratification of the members at a full council meeting. If it is approved, the 47-year-old British coach will join Magpies icons like Alan Shearer, Sir Bobby Robson and Shaka Hislop in receiving the honour.

The Carabao Cup champions will be next seen in action after the international break as they take on Brentford on April 2 in the Premier League.