Newcastle United have a situation in their hands.
According to the club, Lewis Hall’s relationship with Eddie Howe has not broken down amid fresh links with Manchester United and reports pointing to a breakup in the relationship between the player and the gaffer.
The Mirror first reported that Hall wants to leave Newcastle after becoming frustrated with his role under Howe late in the season. The report claimed the left-back felt his minutes and positional changes affected his chances of making Thomas
Tuchel’s England World Cup squad.
Hall was used at right-back before the Three Lions squad was named, then was benched for a couple of games after being subbed out at half-time against Bournemouth.
The Mirror reported that Hall “would be open to joining” Manchester United, who are looking at long-term left-back options.
However, Chronicle Live’s Lee Ryder reported that Newcastle insiders have firmly rejected claims of a dispute.
“Hall has not submitted a transfer request and that the pair parted ways for the summer on the best of terms,” Chronicle Live reported.
The same report stated Howe’s relationship with Hall remains “very good” and that no row has taken place behind the scenes.
Howe previously acknowledged Hall’s England omission was difficult for the defender.
“My reaction to that was feeling for Lewis,” Howe said. “To support him and talk to him and help him really.”
“He is an outstanding player, he is so young and he’s got such a lot of his career ahead of him.”
Hall is under contract at Newcastle until 2029, and the club are not expected to welcome interest unless major offers arrive.
For now, Newcastle’s position is clear: they deny a falling-out and say no transfer request has been made.
