Tindall was tight-lipped about his communication with Howe, citing a phone-free period since the final whistle at Aston Villa on Saturday night. But make no mistake, he's got his eyes on the prize - and his duty is clear.

"Eddie's health is the top priority," Tindall stressed. "The more he rests and recovers, the sooner he'll be back on the sidelines, leading the team. It's a waiting game, but I'm confident he'll be back in the driver's seat in no time."

When it comes to Howe's condition, Tindall remains optimistic. "It's day-by-day with Eddie," he said. "He'll speak up when he's ready, and we'll follow his lead. Until then, I'm in the driving seat, and I'm ready to take the wheel."

Tindall's words are laced with a sense of longing for his boss's return. "It's been a while since we've been apart, and I certainly miss him - especially on tough days like this one," he admitted.