Lewis Hall received his first Newcastle United start since November against Everton last night, but was unable to complete 90 minutes.
Injuries have created an opportunity for the 19-year-old, who played a key role in the 4-3 win over West Ham United at the weekend.
Lewis Hall was outstanding off the bench in that game, and his impressive cameo resulted in just a second ever Premier League start for the Magpies. In fact, it was only the fifth start of his Toon career.
He was part of the back four that started against Everton, with Dan Burn moving over to centre-back to allow Hall to come into the side. Burn did brilliantly at the heart of defence, while Hall was also impressive on the left.
The teenager had a few shaky moments but can be happy with his performance, although it did end earlier than anticiapted.
Lewis Hall was substituted in the second half against Everton
It looked as though Hall had an issue in the first half, with the defender receiving treatment from the Toon physio. That caused some panic given the Magpies’ current injury record.
Fortunately, Hall was able to carry on until the 79th minute. He went down again late in the second half, which resulted in Paul Dummett coming on for just his second Premier League appearance of the season.
It was a shame to see Hall forced off, and he received a standing ovation from the Toon Army as he headed towards the dugout.
Eddie Howe explains why he took Newcastle teenager off
Hall’s substitution hinted towards another injury problem for Newcastle, but Eddie Howe does not believe it is anything to worry about.
The Toon manager spoke to NUFC TV about having to take Hall off in the 79th minute.
“He should be fine, I think it was just fatigue,” he said.
Hall substitution ended up costing Newcastle
Given how little Hall has played and how inexperienced he is, it is not a surprise to hear that fatigue was the reason he was forced off. He is still building up his match fitness, and will have found it tough coming into the side with so little football under his belt.
But he did well, and should be ready to start again on Saturday against Fulham.
Interestingly, the Hall substitution ended up costing Newcastle. Dummett took his place in the side, and he ultimately gave away the penalty that allowed Everton to snatch a point.
It was a poor bit of defending from Dummett, who pulled down Ashley Young in the box. Given his experience, it was a really disappointing mistake to make.
But Newcastle must bounce back from it, as they aim to get back to winning ways at Craven Cottage this weekend.
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