Newcastle United are exploring unconventional options to address their right-back shortage as the club prepares to start pre-season without a fit senior right-back. With Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth departing this summer, Tino Livramento is the only natural right-back in the squad, but he is injured and will miss the start of pre-season after withdrawing from England's World Cup squad with a calf injury.
Current Right-Back Options Limited
Livramento played only 45 per cent of Newcastle's matches last season due to various injuries. The club's other natural right-backs include Harrison Ashby, whose future is uncertain after a difficult loan at Bradford City, and teenager Leo Shahar, who has made just one senior appearance. Talks of new signings have been scarce, with only Strasbourg's Guela Doue and free agent Oscar Mingueza linked, while a move for Atalanta's Marco Palestra fell through as he joined Chelsea.
Malick Thiaw's World Cup Role
Centre-back Malick Thiaw, who played more minutes than any other Newcastle player last season, made his World Cup debut for Germany at right-back against Ecuador. He replaced Joshua Kimmich in the 60th minute and looked comfortable alongside Antonio Rudiger, Jonathan Tah, and David Raum. Despite Germany's 2-1 loss, Thiaw was not at fault for Ecuador's winner. His ability to play as an auxiliary right-back provides a temporary solution while Newcastle search for a permanent signing.
Pre-Season Challenges
Midfielder Lewis Miley, who excelled as an emergency right-back last season, will also miss the start of pre-season due to a broken leg. Newcastle's first game of the season is against Liverpool on August 23, and a new right-back is expected to arrive before then. However, Thiaw's versatility offers a welcome boost as the club continues to scour the market.
All World Cup players will have three weeks off after their team's exit, so Thiaw may not return to pre-season immediately. Nonetheless, his performance at right-back for Germany has reminded Eddie Howe of his adaptability.
