Eddie Howe and Dan Burn honoured by Northumbria University | OneFootball

The Newcastle United head coach and the England international defender each received the degree of Doctor of Civil Law in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Newcastle United and the wider community.

Howe led the Magpies to their first domestic trophy since 1955 earlier this year, with Burn scoring the opening goal at Wembley.

Beyond their achievements on the pitch, both Eddie and Dan actively support the Newcastle United Foundation's community programmes, speaking openly about mental health and wellbeing to inspire almost 70,000 people across the North East every year.

They were originally due to receive their degrees alongside students from the University's Faculty of Health and Wellbeing. However, when Newcastle's fixture against Tottenham Hotspur was rescheduled for the same date, University leaders arranged a special presentation at St. James' Park to avoid disrupting the team's match preparations. George Clarke, Northumbria's newly-appointed Chancellor, presided over the ceremony, marking his first official duties since taking up the role in November.

Speaking about receiving his honorary degree, Eddie Howe said: "Dan and I were blown away by the gesture and the acknowledgement. It's an incredible thing and very gratefully received. You never set out to achieve things individually; it's always about the collective, so to be recognised in any way is an amazing thing. I accept this on behalf of our entire coaching team and all the staff working incredibly hard to bring success to Newcastle United."

Dan Burn added: "It feels surreal to receive this incredible honour - it's a very proud moment for my family, and me. There are always knockbacks in people's careers, but the important thing is still having the fire to do what you want to do and not let those knockbacks stop you. While I was fortunate to score in the cup final, bringing that trophy to Newcastle was a team effort. This recognition belongs to everyone who made that moment possible."

Each year, Northumbria University awards honorary degrees to individuals who have obtained the very highest standards of scholarship, outstanding achievement, or distinction worthy of national or international recognition in their academic or professional field.

Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Northumbria University, said: "In awarding honorary degrees we look to honour those who have achieved things that align with the University's mission, activities and our values. An important part of that is their contribution to the University or to the North East.

"We know that our students will be inspired by the work of these exceptional leaders from the sporting, health, cultural, business and medical fields."