Eddie Howe has confirmed that Lewis Hall will be a Newcastle player next season.

The Magpies signed the defender on an initial season-long loan deal from Chelsea last summer. However, there was subsequent debate over whether the purchase clause in the agreement was optional or mandatory. Speaking about Hall’s situation, Howe said:

“It’s nailed on [for him to stay at St James’ Park]. I’m preparing for Lewis to be at Newcastle for many years. He was always brought in with a long-term view and I’m delighted because he has many qualities we are looking for.”

It is believed that Newcastle will pay £28m for Hall when his move becomes permanent at the end of the season.

The fullback’s lack of game time has raised eyebrows

Since joining Newcastle, Hall has made just 11 appearances, and only 4 of those have been starts. There has been constant conjecture as to why the teenager has been used so sparingly but Howe insists his lack of minutes is simply down to the coaching staff believing that he needs to develop his game more in certain areas.

Hall was suspect defensively when he started the 2-0 away defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League back in November. Howe decided to take him off at half-time in that game, clearly feeling he isn’t ready for such high-profile fixtures.

Hall is still very young

The transfer fee paid for the Chelsea player means that supporters were expecting Hall to be used on a more regular basis but he is only 19 years of age.

Some players develop a different rates and, while he did catch the eye when given opportunities by his previous team Chelsea, Howe is keen to do more work with the player on the training pitch.

You can watch the documentary – Newcastle United: The Road Back To Europe on Shots! TV here