Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of talented teenager Lewis Hall from Chelsea, and there is a case to be made that Eddie Howe should throw him straight into the action.
The 18-year-old was a breakout star at Stamford Bridge last season, but after a summer of heavy spending, Chelsea decided to cash in on one of their biggest talents, and he has now joined the Magpies on loan with an option to buy.
The left-back started eight Premier League games last season, making his debut against Newcastle in what was a 1-0 defeat for his side.
He made sporadic appearances, but stood out in defeats against Manchester City and Liverpool. Whilst his side was struggling, he was a bright spot, and he was unfazed when playing against high-level opposition.
Howe should definitely consider giving him another tough test, by throwing him into action for Newcastle immediately, as the Magpies welcome Liverpool to St James’ Park on Sunday
If Hall does start against Liverpool, he will likely come up against the Premier League’s best winger in Mohamed Salah, but whilst this is no easy task, Hall shone when he kept a clean sheet against the Egyptian the last time they met, in a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge.
Hall was regarded as one of Chelsea’s best talents, with last season’s interim manager Frank Lampard describing him as “quality.”
The versatile full-back, who can also play in midfield, will likely establish himself as a starter before too long, and given his mobility, he may fare better against the pace of Salah than a more physical option in Dan Burn.
Although he is still young, he has enough quality to shine even against difficult opponents, and it was his ability to adapt to new surroundings quickly which saw him break into the Chelsea side in the first place.
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