Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says that Lewis Hall was not fit enough to be in the matchday squad for the defeat to Liverpool on Sunday.

The 18-year-old, who will sign for the Magpies on a permanent basis from Chelsea at the end of the season, was pictured in the stands during the 2-1 loss. Asked about the fullback’s absence, Howe said:

“He’s trained with us, but he’s not played a game during pre-season. He’s only trained, so he’s some way short of being match-fit.”

Based on Howe’s remarks, it doesn’t look as though Hall will feature for Newcastle before the next international break.

A defensive reshuffle will be needed for the Brighton game

If Sven Botman does not recover from his ankle injury in time for the weekend, Howe will be forced into changing the personnel in his back four.

Dan Burn could be switched to play alongside Fabian Schar in the centre of defence, leaving an opening for someone at left-back. If Hall doesn’t fill it, it may be the case that Matt Targett starts versus the Seagulls on Saturday evening.

That could be why it has been reported the Magpies have rejected loan bids from the likes of Nottingham Forest and Fulham in recent days.

Newcastle may have to go back into the transfer market before Friday’s deadline

With captain Jamaal Lascelles having been involved in an altercation outside of a nightclub, and with the risk of Botman being out for the long term, bringing in another centre-half may need to be considered.

Even if it is a loan deal until January, it would help add reinforcements to an area of the pitch which is rather lacking in depth. There is no sign that Newcastle are actively looking to make a signing at this stage but that could still change.