“NOT FAIR”- Newcastle set to force defender to train with the under-21’s after his failed attempt to leave
Newcastle United are already considering offloading three players this summer, including Jamal Lewis, as manager Eddie Howe looks to streamline his squad.
The Magpies have been actively working to transfer out some fringe players this summer, with Jeff Hendrick having already left the club at the conclusion of the 2023/24 season. Now, the club’s focus has shifted to other players who have seen limited action on the field for Newcastle.
By releasing or selling these peripheral players, Newcastle will have more flexibility in the transfer market. However, some players are tied to lengthy contracts with high wages, complicating their potential departures.
One such player Newcastle aims to offload this summer is Lewis, who has made only 36 appearances in his four-year tenure with the club, according to The Athletic.
The report suggests that if Lewis doesn’t secure a transfer soon, Newcastle might even demote him from the first-team squad, underscoring their eagerness for his exit.
Lewis joined St James’ Park in 2020, with high hopes that the left-back would thrive at Newcastle. Unfortunately, the Northern Ireland international has struggled during his time on Tyneside.
A string of injuries saw Lewis slip down the pecking order. Following the club’s takeover in October 2021 and the imminent January transfer window, it became clear that Lewis would struggle to reclaim his spot in the team.
The arrival and strong performances of Dan Burn further relegated Lewis to the sidelines. Consequently, he was loaned out to Championship side Watford last season, where he made 38 appearances across all competitions, surprisingly two more than he has managed throughout his entire Newcastle career.
It’s evident that Lewis needs a fresh start at a club where he can secure regular playing time. With Newcastle flourishing under Howe’s leadership, it appears that Lewis’ stint at St James’ Park has reached its end.
Additional player exits anticipated at Newcastle
Lewis is not the only player deemed surplus to requirements at Newcastle. Ryan Fraser, who spent the previous season on loan at Southampton, is anticipated to finalize a permanent move.
Additionally, Isaac Hayden remains on the market after spending last season on loan with Belgium’s Standard Liege and a brief stint with Championship side QPR.
As of now, all three players are expected to return to training soon, but they might be segregated from the main squad. This move would make it clear that they do not feature in Howe’s plans for the future at St James’ Park.