Newcastle manager Joe Kinnear will undergo triple heart bypass surgery tomorrow. Chris Hughton and Colin Calderwood will remain in temporary charge of team affairs, with the Magpies boss set to be away from the club for at least eight weeks.

Kinnear was taken to hospital on Saturday after feeling unwell and tests have confirmed the former Wimbledon manager needs an operation.

A club statement said: “Newcastle United can confirm that manager Joe Kinnear will undergo a triple heart bypass operation tomorrow.

“Joe was admitted to hospital on Saturday morning in the midlands after reporting feeling unwell at the team’s hotel ahead of the game at West Bromwich Albion. Tests have since confirmed Joe requires surgery, after which he will need to rest for a period of at least eight weeks.”

The 62-year-old, who had a heart attack 10 years ago, had complained of feeling unwell on Saturday and his high blood pressure prompted a visit to hospital. Subsequent tests with a cardiologist have revealed the extent of the problem.

Kinnear said: “I’ve really appreciated all the get-well messages I’ve received from people over the last week and I’d like to thank everyone who has been in touch.”

Kinnear was initially appointed interim manager by owner Mike Ashley in September following Kevin Keegan’s shock exit, and after a promising start — he lost only two of his first 12 games in charge — he was given the job until the end of the season.

However, a run of eight matches without a win, six of them in the league, and a return of just two points from a possible 18, dropped the Magpies into relegation trouble before Saturday’s victory over rock-bottom West Brom on Saturday slightly eased their fears.