EDDIE HOWE says Newcastle United will be throwing a “protective arm” around Darren Eales as he begins his battle against cancer, and is confident the club will be able to cope with the departure of their chief executive.

Eales announced his attention to step down from his current role with the Magpies at the end of last week, revealing he had been diagnosed with a chronic form of blood cancer.

The news of Eales’ condition came as a huge shock to all who work with him at St James’ Park, and while his decision to step aside will have major repercussions, the overriding priority is to do everything possible to ensure the 52-year-old’s wellbeing.

“I think all of us associated with Newcastle really feel for Darren and throw a protective arm around him,” said Howe. “It was devastating news for him and his family.

“Darren is a really hard worker, he wants to do a good job for Newcastle and he’s always been really committed. That news put everything into perspective. We hope he makes a full recovery, and he’s okay, and we’ll do everything we can to support him.”

While Eales’ health situation takes precedence over everything else, Newcastle’s executive team have already turned their attention to the search for his successor.

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Eales will be remaining in position to assist with the recruitment process, but the change of chief executive nevertheless means there will be further upheaval after a period that has already witnessed considerable off-field change.

Paul Mitchell replaced Dan Ashworth earlier this summer, bringing in James Bunce in a newly-created role of performance director, while Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi both left the board after selling their shareholding in Newcastle.

Howe’s own position has felt less secure as a result of the changes, but the Magpies boss is confident those above him will successfully replace Eales.

“The first thing is Darren’s health, ahead of anything else football related,” he said. “It’s about the person and his family, so I’m putting that as the most important priority.

“Then, looking at the football side, it’s obviously not what we wanted. But I’m sure that the club will have its plans in place, and build that through time.

“I know Darren is going to stay and support the club, which is testament again to his character and how he wants to leave his legacy, which is a fantastic thing. The club will be okay.”