Ex-Newcastle United manager 'learning to walk again' after 14 months away from football

Former Newcastle United caretaker boss Nigel Pearson admits he is currently learning to walk again after suffering a 'neurological situation'.

The ex-Magpies assistant, who worked under Glenn Roeder, Sam Allardyce and Kevin Keegan and also took charge of two matches as manager in 2008, left his role as Bristol City boss in October 2023, explaining that he required a back operation shortly before his dismissal. Pearson had been using crutches on the touchline in the weeks before he left the job.

Now, breaking his silence on the matter, the former Leicester City and Watford manager admits the last few months have been a real struggle as he continues his recovery away from the spotlight.

READ MORE: We're about to find out truth of damning Newcastle United accusation

READ MORE: Michail Antonio's first words after horror Ferrari crash revealed by dog walker on scene

“Learning to walk again has been an incredible challenge,” Pearson wrote on his X account, accompanied with four photos of his recent time with relatives. “My appreciation of support from family, friends, colleagues, supporters, and medical professionals has been profound.

"I had the wonderful opportunity of travelling to the US with my dad to meet family for the first time in Wisconsin. I’ve been able to cycle in the Peak District, and swing golf clubs at the driving range, although my follow through needs some work (I’ve not fallen over yet!).

"Although my prognosis is still uncertain, believe me that positivity and laughter can prove the best medicine as I experienced with old friends from school on a canal narrow boat on my birthday. There is always light somewhere ahead – new possibilities, new challenges.”

Pearson was in charge of Newcastle's 6-0 defeat of Manchester United and the FA Cup third-round replay win over Stoke before Keegan made his second return as manager back in 2008. Soon after he began his own managerial career at Southampton before working at Leicester twice, Hull City, Derby County, OH Leuven, Watford and Bristol City.