Jamal Lewis has barely played for Newcastle United this season, but he could now be in line to feature for his country.
Northern Ireland have announced their latest squad for the upcoming international break, and Lewis is part of the 26-man list.
Michael O’Neill has included Lewis in the side for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers later this month. Northern Ireland face San Marino and Finland, as they look to get their qualifying campaign off to a perfect start.
For the 25-year-old, it is a golden chance to actually play some competitive football and get some minutes under his belt.
Jamal Lewis has barely played for Newcastle this season
Lewis has only made three appearances for Eddie Howe’s side this season. The first was a 45 minute cameo in the Carabao Cup win over Tranmere Rovers, followed by his only Premier League outing – a seven minute substitute appearance in a 4-1 win over Fulham.
He has started just one game for Newcastle this season, and that was the FA Cup embarrassment away to Sheffield Wednesday. Lewis really struggled on that night, and has not played a single minute since.
The £15million man has spent the majority of the campaign warming the bench, with either Dan Burn or Matt Targett playing on the left of defence.
Lewis is massively out of favour at St James’ Park, and things could get even worse this summer.
This summer could be the end for Lewis at St James’ Park
It has been reported that Howe wants to sign a new left-back, with Kieran Tierney top of Newcastle’s list of targets. A deal for the Arsenal star would push Lewis even further down the pecking order, and potentially out the door completely.
That is why this international break is important for Lewis. It is a chance to finally play and show potential suitors what he is capable of, as it sadly looks like he is never going to make the grade on Tyneside.
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