Gareth Southgate was a guest at Newcastle United's training ground this week as the England boss paid a visit to the north east. The Three Lions chief was also in attendance at a St Oswald's event on Thursday evening to raise vital funds for the Gosforth-based hospice.
The sold out evening was planned by Newcastle assistant Graeme Jones and his wife Debbie, both of whom became ambassadors for the hospice in 2021 to give back for the care shown to Jones' mother Rita, who passed away after a battle with cancer back in 1991.
Jones, who has a long-time friendship with Southgate, pulled some strings to get his good friend on Tyneside for the event. There was also time for Southgate to pop to the Newcastle's Benton base during his trip.
READ MORE: Graeme Jones opens up on untold pain he has 'never got over' and Newcastle's transformation
Addressing the training ground visit, Eddie Howe said: "It was great to have him with us yesterday. I’ve got a really good relationship with Gareth, I really respect him.
"He spoke at a dinner last night that Graeme Jones hosted for a local hospice, St Oswald’s. It was an incredible night, and hopefully a lot of money was raised.”
Southgate's attendance at the event was confirmed at the back end of 2022, with the national team boss more than happy to play his part. “I am really looking forward to being part of the event in support of St Oswald’s Hospice," he said in October. "I have known Graeme since around 2008 when we did our Pro Licence together and we kept in touch afterwards. I was delighted to have him join my coaching team for Euro 2020.
“When he personally asked for my support at this event, I really wanted to help. Hospices are vital parts of their local communities and I know that Graeme and his family were supported enormously by St Oswald’s Hospice many years ago, something he hasn’t forgotten."
Howe has enjoyed a positive relationship with Southgate in recent years. The former Middlesbrough manager has also been spotted at various Newcastle matches in recent months, usually flanked by co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi.
Newcastle stars also attended the St Oswald's event, proving they've already 'got their suits measured' ahead of Wembley next week. However, it was the surprise attendance of one family member that had fans talking on social media.
Bruno Guimaraes' father, Dick, was spotted in a team photo from the evening, with supporters delighted to see him still enjoying his time in Newcastle.
READ NEXT
Eddie Howe's brilliant answer when asked if revenge is on the cards against Liverpool and Klopp
Newcastle United's summer transfer kitty boosted after Nottingham Forest sign Chris Wood permanently
"We want to entertain" - Eddie Howe's Newcastle United vow on tactics that fans will love
Joe Willock's Wembley dream alive as Eddie Howe delivers Newcastle United injury update
Jurgen Klopp and Kaka share glowing endorsement for Newcastle 'target' Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
