Newcastle United's first team squad returned for pre-season testing on Monday, with several key players spotted at the Benton training centre. The club's media team released images and footage showing stars like Sven Botman, Fabian Schar, Lewis Hall, Alex Murphy, Jacob Ramsey, Joe Willock, Joelinton, and new signing Sean Steur taking part in individual testing.
Livramento and Miley Step Up Recovery
The biggest boost from the first day was the presence of Tino Livramento and Lewis Miley, both recovering from injuries. Livramento underwent minor surgery for a calf injury that forced him out of England's World Cup squad, but he was pictured on an exercise bike, indicating a smooth recovery. Miley, who suffered a broken leg in May, was seen testing his leg strength after signing a new six-year deal. According to Chronicle Live, both players are expected to return to full training soon.
Absences Explained
Some notable absentees from the morning session included Nick Pope, Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes, Will Osula, Mark Gillespie, and new signing Ewen Jaouen. Despite speculation linking Pope and Murphy with moves away, Chronicle Live understands their absence is simply because the first day of testing is split into two groups. These players are expected to attend the afternoon session. The club's World Cup contingent—Bruno Guimaraes, Dan Burn, Malick Thiaw, Nick Woltemade, Anthony Elanga, Yoane Wissa, and Bazoumana Toure—have been given extra time off.
KNOX Branding Across Training Ground
Newcastle's new partnership with KNOX Hydrate was evident, with the brand's logo appearing on the training centre and players' gear. KNOX will also sponsor the club's kits this season, marking an increased presence at the club.
Sean Steur's First Day
Steur, the 18-year-old signing from Ajax, was the only new recruit pictured on Monday. He has already completed two-and-a-half weeks of pre-season training with Ajax, putting him in good shape to start immediately. Jaouen will test in the afternoon, while Toure joins later in the summer.
Hall and Willock Future
Lewis Hall and Joe Willock, both linked with departures, were present at training. Hall has been linked with Manchester United, but Newcastle consider him not for sale. Willock, in the last year of his contract, has attracted interest from other Premier League clubs. The pursuit of Johan Manzambi, who ultimately chose Aston Villa, suggests Newcastle are preparing for Willock's potential exit.
Newcastle's pre-season schedule includes a behind-closed-doors friendly against Darlington, trips to Gateshead, Bristol City, Valencia, and Edinburgh to face Everton, before home games against Bayer Leverkusen and Strasbourg. Their Premier League season opens at home against Liverpool.
