Fresh fears about two of Newcastle‘s young centre-backs โ Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall have emerged. Newcastle’s 2-1 defeat at Arsenal in St James’ Park was heartbreaking because of the late goal. But the injury was the cherry on the cake.
Valentino Livramento Situation: Livramento and Lewis Hall
The most disturbing moment came in the 77th minute when Livramento awkwardly fell after heading a ball. He was stretchered off and manager Eddie Howe admitted afterwards that the injury did look concerning. “To see him come off like that was utterly distressing,” said Howe. He confirmed the issue was to Livramento’s knee and said: “It doesn’t sound greatโ. If weโre without him for any length of time, it will be a huge blow.โ
Livramento has been a regular starter this season for Newcastle, covering both full-back roles. Given his history of an ACL injury earlier in his career, the sight of him leaving on a stretcher raised further alarm. Howe said more details would follow once medical checks were complete.
Lewis Hall Situation
Meanwhile, Hall did not make the squad for the game. The 19-year-old had only just come back from a foot problem and played in Newcastle‘s last two games, against Bradford and Bournemouth. Howe said that Hall was left out as a precaution. “Lewis had a little bit of fatigue in his body today. We hope he will be ready soon,” he said. Hall is also returning to full edge after his downtime, and the club is taking it easy with his workload.
Contrast in Scenarios
The contrast between the two pieces of news is evident. Hall’s is a minor absence, whereas Livramento’s may be much more serious. With Champions League games and a packed league schedule on the horizon, Howe may be compelled to reorganize his defense and bank on squad depth.
From the perspective of the game itself, Howe reported he was “absolutely gutted” to have been defeated in stoppage time after a sound effort from his players. The injuries were an added misery.
Author’s Insight
Meanwhile, Newcastle hopes were pinned on good news from the medical scans and a quick return for Hall, while hope continues to wait for Livramento.
