England scouts have been monitoring several Newcastle United players as selection planning continues ahead of the World Cup, according to a report by the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope.
Hope reported that Lewis Miley “has been the subject of watching eyes from the stands of late,” with England scouts attending recent Newcastle matches to assess the teenager.
“Insiders believe the 19-year-old has a chance of being elevated to Thomas Tuchel’s senior squad,” Hope wrote, adding that the view is “supported by
the presence of FA staff at recent matches.”
Hope reported that Miley’s recent appearances at right back have done wonders to showcase his talents at different positions, noting that playing full back is “one area where places are yet to be settled” in the England squad.
“There is an opportunity in midfield,” Hope wrote, which is Miley’s natural position, mentioning a fourth spot up for grabs in a battle between Miley, Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson and Jordan Henderson.
The report made clear that scouts were not focused on Miley alone, with many Magpies in contention for a WC spot.
“It was not just Miley the scouts were checking on,” Hope wrote, adding Lewis Hall, Anthony Gordon and Nick Pope to the list of players under evaluation.
“The feeling around Hall is that he is almost certain to be included in Tuchel’s squad for the March internationals,” Hope wrote.
Hope added that Gordon “will be selected if fit,” while Pope “must again prove his worth after injury.”
The report also outlined uncertainty surrounding Tino Livramento’s availability due to his most-recent setback.
“Tino Livramento faces a race to be ready for the March friendlies,” Hope wrote, describing them as “the last international meet before the World Cup squad is named” as the Magpie man is expected to miss around eight weeks.
