Newcastle United injury update ahead of Chelsea
Newcastle United v Chelsea: Lewis Hall is back at St James’ Park for Saturday’s Premier League clash against his former club.
Hall, who has suffered badly with injuries in 2025, missed Wednesday’s 2-1 Carabao Cup quarter-final win over Fulham due to a hamstring issue.
But the 21-year-old is back with the squad for the match against his former club Chelsea in a timely injury boost for Eddie Howe’s side.
A lack of defensive options on Wednesday saw The Magpies end the game with Lewis Miley and Alex Murphy in the full-back roles against Fulham.
While there was talk of a potential full Newcastle debut for Murphy at left-back, Hall’s return to the matchday squad will likely see him come back into the starting line-up.
Lewis Hall spotted at St James’ Park
The Shields Gazette captured the moment Hall arrived at St James’ Park, confirming his spot in the matchday squad.
Eddie Howe teases Lewis Hall return
Speaking ahead of the Chelsea match, Howe hinted Hall could be involved against Chelsea.
The Magpies boss said: “Yeah, he could be. He felt some fatigue in his hamstring after the Sunderland game.
“It wasn't evident in the game, it was more the couple of days afterwards. So he had a scan, the scan didn't reveal too much.”
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NUFC left-back alternative
Murphy made his Premier League debut for Newcastle against Chelsea two years ago and is in the matchday squad once again today.
“An important moment for the team,” Howe said reflecting on Murphy’s introduction. “Alex did really well. He's someone that's trained with us for a long time.
“He hasn't had any major game exposure with us, but a lot of training time, a lot of development. He's had a good loan spell [at Bolton Wanderers]. So he's someone that we trust.
“And performances like that will only do him good for the long term.”
Newcastle United v Chelsea preview
Previewing the match against Chelsea, Howe continued: “There's been a lot of change at Chelsea over recent seasons.
“They've gone very youthful with their recruitment. I think long-term you'll definitely see the benefits of that.
“I think very good manager [Enzo Maresca], very good style of play, a very good team.
“Short recovery time for us. Big challenge this week. But we're looking forward to that. I think we like the early kick-offs. We love playing at home. So I think anything we can do to help swing this in our direction is important.”
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