The Thomas Tuchel phone call to Ben Chilwell that could spell bad news for Newcastle’s Lewis Hall

Add as preferred source on Google

Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall could be the solution to England’s left-back problem.

It was a major issue last summer, as England somehow made it to the final of Euro 2024. Throughout the tournament, England had left-back issues. Luke Shaw was not fit, with Gareth Southgate opting to play Newcastle United’s veteran right-back Kieran Trippier over there.

That summed up the lack of viable alternatives, but Lewis Hall has emerged as a contender to make the position his own with his form this season.

Hall made his England debut last year, with Lee Carsley giving the 20-year-old an opportunity that he richly deserved.

He certainly has the potential to make the position his own, while a lack of competition helps Hall’s cause. Alan Shearer thinks Hall can be England’s long-term left-back, and Gary Lineker agrees.

What Thomas Tuchel told Ben Chilwell before transfer move

However, there could soon be some competition for Hall to worry about.

Ben Chilwell has played 21 times for England, but his career has stalled since falling out of favour at Chelsea.

But he has made a move on transfer deadline day, with Chilwell moving to Crystal Palace after spending the first half of the season in exile.

His lack of minutes has hurt his England chances, but there could be a way back now that Thomas Tuchel is in charge.

That is according to journalist Ben Jacobs, who has shared details of what Tuchel recently told Chilwell during a phone call.

“Thomas Tuchel actually called Ben Chilwell last week and said ‘go and get minutes’,” he said.

“From Chilwell’s point of view, Palace has proven to be the right fit.”

More competition for Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall

With Tuchel making that call to Chilwell, there is clearly a path for the 28-year-old to get back in the Three Lions squad. Of course, that will be based on how he plays for Crystal Palace.

But Tuchel is obviously a fan, having worked with him at Stamford Bridge.

Chilwell’s move to Palace and Tuchel’s call to him increases the amount of players that Hall must compete with to become an England regular. It presents the Magpies’ number 20 with a challenge, and it is hopefully one he will rise to.

In truth, his main focus will be playing well for Newcastle United. England will look after itself, as his international status will depend on how he performs domestically.