Eddie Howe has hailed Lewis Hall’s impressive cameo in Saturday’s 4-3 win over West Ham, describing it as a “huge” moment for the 19-year-old after the “incredible amount of work” he’s done behind the scenes to work on his game.
The teenager made an instant impact at left-back, showing quality and calmness in possession, aggression in the tackle and real positivity as he moved the ball quickly and made some great forward runs.
Howe feels he made a “real difference” and has given him “food for thought” ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Everton.
“It’s huge for him and it’s huge for us because he’s done an incredible amount of work behind the scenes to work on various aspects of his game, as we would with any young player,” said Howe.
“He made a real difference on Saturday and I thought he came on against Manchester City and did really well. That’s his part of the bargain, when he plays he has to do well enough to try and stay in, so he’s given me a lot of food for thought.”
The boss has also been speaking about Alexander Isak following the Swede’s brace on Saturday, taking him to 18 goals for the season in all competitions.
Asked about links with a potential summer exit to help us comply with FFP rules, Howe said: “He’s an outstanding talent and no one connected with Newcastle would want to lose him.
“He was excellent on Saturday. He didn’t score in open play but his two penalties were outstanding and his general play was very good. His link play, his athleticism, he looked in a really good place.
“He is different. Although he’s been out injured, he’s very good so I hope for really big things, just as long as he can stay fit”.
If Howe had given this kid a chance earlier instead of wearing blinkers we may not have had some of the disasters on the LHS of defence this season.
All of a sudden he recognises we have a player, pass the bucket 😷
Joseph(Quote)
Who knows how much he has improved under Howe, like so many others. Maybe playing him earlier if he wasn’t ready might not have been too clever.
PremAndUp(Quote)
Has to start against Everton imo
Porkpie(Quote)
Porkpie :-
I think it has been forced upon him if he does, although he could prefer Dummet.
Joseph(Quote)
Agree and if he does play Dummet then don’t bother signing hall.
Porkpie(Quote)