‘We really believe’… Eddie Howe says ‘amazing’ Newcastle star can still get so much better

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Newcastle United have reasons to be confident ahead of the new Premier League season.

While a lack of big money transfers this summer is no doubt frustrating for Newcastle, there is little reason as to why Eddie Howe’s side cannot improve this time around.

They face a reduced schedule after missing out on European football and have kept all of Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon despite links with moves away.

Sandro Tonali will be back in action later this month following the conclusion of a ten-month ban from football and key players are returning from injury.

Joelinton, Nick Pope, Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock all missed significant portions of the season, so having them available will be a major boost.

Indeed, there’s also a core of young players getting better under Howe’s watch.

Lewis Hall is starting to impress following a difficult start to life on Tyneside, while Tino Livramento has another year of experience under his belt.

The former Southampton defender hit the ground running last season and even surprised Alan Shearer with the quality of some of his performances.

Now, Howe is hoping for even more progress.

Eddie Howe makes Tino Livramento prediction at Newcastle

Speaking about a potential battle between Livramento and Kiean Trippier for a starting berth at right-back, Howe told The Chronicle: “Physically he’s in a good place. He’s had the majority of pre-season with no issues. He had an ankle injury at the back end of last year but we really believe in him.

“He’s got serious competition in Kieran and it’s going to be fascinating to see how those two compete. Two top talents, amazing characters – so that will be an interesting thing to see.”

Tino Livramento is the future for Newcastle

Trippier’s future is still uncertain amid links with a move away from the club but even if the veteran ultimately stays, Livramento looks ready to be his successor.

While few would doubt the impact Trippier has had on the club since joining from Atletico Madrid, even the player himself admitted to a drop in standards last season.

Though he could remain a key part of the squad should a move away not materialise, Livramento looks primed and ready to take his spot.

The future looks very bright on the full-back front for Newcastle.