Report: What Dan Ashworth Witnessed Newcastle’s Tino Livramento Do for England U21s – A Star on the Rise
Newcastle United’s rising star Tino Livramento was once again in the spotlight on Sunday evening as he took to the pitch for England’s U21 side in their European Championship campaign. The 22-year-old full-back, fresh off an impressive season in the Premier League, showcased his growing influence on the international stage — and watching from the stands was none other than Dan Ashworth, the former Magpies sporting director and now the Chief Football Officer at The FA.
Livramento Impresses Again on International Duty
As England U21s faced off against Slovenia in their second group game of the tournament, Livramento was handed another start by manager Lee Carsley — this time deployed on the left side of defence, a position he has grown increasingly comfortable with. Coming into the game on the back of a standout performance against Czechia earlier in the week, expectations were high, and Livramento once again didn’t disappoint.
Despite the match ending in a frustrating 0-0 stalemate, England dominated possession and dictated the tempo throughout. The Young Lions lacked the cutting edge in the final third but maintained a solid defensive foundation — in large part thanks to Livramento’s composed display.
According to FotMob statistics, Livramento recorded 82 touches, created two chances, and completed 97% of his 74 attempted passes — a level of technical precision that stood out even among the tournament’s elite young talent. He also registered nine ball recoveries and didn’t lose possession once, underlining his intelligence both with and without the ball.
Ashworth Watches On – A Familiar Face in the Stands
Ashworth’s presence in the crowd did not go unnoticed. The former Newcastle director, now back with the FA in a top-level executive role, played a key role in Livramento’s arrival at St James’ Park in 2023. His attendance served as a timely reminder of his ongoing belief in the defender’s ability and potential to eventually thrive at senior international level.
Ashworth was instrumental in building the foundations for Newcastle’s youth-focused project, and Livramento was a marquee acquisition under his watch. That £32 million move from Southampton was questioned by some at the time — notably by his short-lived successor Paul Mitchell — but those doubts now look absurd.
Mitchell’s Misjudgment and Livramento’s Rise
Paul Mitchell, who took over from Ashworth as Newcastle’s sporting director, reportedly had reservations about the fee paid for Livramento, suggesting it was excessive. However, in less than a year, that assessment has proven to be misjudged. Newcastle have now confirmed Mitchell will depart the club at the end of June, ending a brief and somewhat puzzling tenure.
Livramento’s performances throughout the 2024/25 campaign, and now on the international stage, have fully vindicated the club’s decision to invest in him. Not only has he adapted seamlessly to the demands of the Premier League, but he has also demonstrated positional flexibility, tactical discipline, and an ability to perform at a consistently high level.
At just 22 years old, Livramento is widely regarded as one of the top young full-backs in English football — and with his ceiling still far from reached, he appears destined for senior England honours in the near future.
Should Livramento Be in the Senior England Squad?
There is growing sentiment among fans and pundits alike that Livramento should be in the senior England setup already, particularly after his electric displays for Newcastle throughout the season. England head coach Thomas Tuchel, who is overseeing both senior and youth pathways, reportedly rates Livramento very highly and sees his involvement with the U21s as part of a broader development strategy rather than a demotion.
The experience of tournament football at U21 level, coupled with a leadership role among younger players, could be part of preparing Livramento for a more prominent role in the senior squad in upcoming World Cup qualifiers and major tournaments.
What Comes Next?
For now, England U21s face a tense final group game against Germany, a must-win fixture if they are to secure passage into the knockout rounds. Livramento is expected to start once again and will be a vital component of Carsley’s tactical setup, especially if England want to maintain their defensive solidity while improving in the attacking third.
For Newcastle United, Livramento’s continued development is a massive boost heading into the new season. With the club aiming to return to European competition, having a player of his calibre in their defensive ranks — and potentially one of the best bargains in recent transfer windows — is a major asset.
The former Southampton man is proving his doubters wrong, showing every bit of the promise that convinced Ashworth to push for his signature in the first place. If his trajectory continues, it’s only a matter of time before he becomes a regular for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions.