- Newcastle United starting XI to take on Arsenal confirmed
- Eddie Howe makes five changes to side that lost to AFC Bournemouth
- Lewis Hall named on bench in surprising decision
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has relegated full-back Lewis Hall to the bench against Arsenal in a decision that has turned the heads of Magpies supporters.
The defender was taken off at half-time in the 2-1 defeat to AFC Bournemouth but has largely been one of the side’s brighter sparks during a run of torrid form. Hall has started the last seven Premier League fixtures, only not making the XI once since the start of December.
Dan Burn is preferred against the Gunners from the start. It’s a decision that has ruffled the feathers of Newcastle United supporters.
Lewis Hall dropped against Arsenal
Taking to social media platform X, one fan wrote: “This is a slightly perplexing lineup with Hall and Barnes on the bench. Ramsey at LW? Maybe Willock? There is an end of an era feel to it, let alone end of season.”
Meanwhile, another added: “Can anyone defend or explain why Lewis Hall, one of the only players coming out of this season with any credit, has been dropped? Didn’t think so. Time to go Eddie.”
The likelihood is that Howe wants the height of Burn in the XI against an Arsenal team known for the physicality and height. The Gunners have a prowess from set plays.
However, the decision also comes a week after Howe outlined that he would prioritise selecting players who remain committed to the project on Tyneside.
Eddie Howe makes bold Newcastle United XI call
He said: “I’m not going to play a player, any player, if I don’t feel they’re 100% committed to the club and to its future. Because that commitment, that resolve, what a player gives the team has to be total.”
At this stage, there’s no suggestion that this is the reason Hall has been dropped, but the defender has been readily linked with a St James’ Park exit this summer. Newcastle need to sell before buying and the impressive full-back could raise a high sum.
Earlier this month, CaughtOffside reported that both Arsenal and Chelsea were battling to sign Hall. Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool had also been linked.
Howe’s decision to drop the player will only fuel transfer talk with a £70 million valuation touted. The Magpies paid £35 million to sign the player from Chelsea in 2023.
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