Lewis Hall has escaped the pressure cooker of a misfiring Newcastle United to emerge into the sunlit uplands of England, while Tino Livramento's injury struggles continue to threaten his career. Both situations are concerning for the club.
Hall's International Rise
Hall, who missed out on the World Cup finals, has firmly established his international credentials. A boyhood Magpie fan despite being born south of here, he remained loyal while others rushed for the lifeboats, committing to a new long-term contract when Manchester United showed persistent interest.
However, after starting the season full of vigour, Hall has become bogged down like so many others despite being by far United's most talented player. International fortnight represents a release valve, but there is worry that if things continue, he may seek pastures new to safeguard his England place and enhance his career prospects.
Livramento's Injury Woes
Livramento, who will be 24 on the 21st of this month, is in his fourth term as a Magpie but has played less games and only has three appearances as a sub this season. He has failed to make 20 starts in two of his three years, with only 2024-25 seeing a respectable return of 38 matches plus seven as sub.
But for a fragile body, Livramento would be with Hall on England duty right now. He was picked for the World Cup but had to pull out on the eve of the tournament through recurring injury. Manchester City were ready to do business during the mass walk-out, but a detailed look at his medical record brought a rowing back on the idea.
Impact on Newcastle
Newcastle were forced to buy right-back Amar Dedic to play while Livramento fought another fitness setback. As long ago as April 24, 2022, he was ruled out for the remainder of that year following an ACL injury sustained during Southampton's match with Brighton. He returned after 392 days of rehab on May 21, 2023 as a sub against Brighton again. Three months later Newcastle signed him for an initial outlay of £32m plus £8m in add-ons.
The question now is what happens with two naturally talented young full-backs who were once thought to form a long-lasting partnership at Newcastle to rival David Craig and Frank Clark. For varying reasons that idealistic hope is under real threat.
