Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall has publicly backed manager Eddie Howe, agreeing that excessive 'negativity' has surrounded the club in recent weeks. The 21-year-old has called for greater understanding and a more positive outlook from supporters, emphasising the significant opportunities still available to the squad this season and beyond.
Hall and Howe Unite Against Online Criticism
The young English full-back has joined forces with his manager in appealing for a shift in perspective. This comes amid pointed criticism from online fans regarding the team's tactics and performances during an inconsistent run of form. Newcastle currently sit 13th in the Premier League table, a position that has fuelled discontent on social media platforms.
Howe himself reacted strongly last Friday when a reporter questioned the team's approach during their 3-1 victory away at Burnley. Hall stated that Howe was right to confront what they perceive as undue negativity, noting that match-going fans at St. James' Park continue to offer their full support.
'If I'm honest, I agree (with the manager),' Hall said. 'It's also about understanding we haven't been at our best this year. But if you look at the league table, how tight it is, and what we've done in previous seasons... last year we were in a similar position, 12th at Christmas, and then we went on a run. That's what we have to do now.'
Focusing on the Positives and the Path Ahead
Hall stressed the importance of the squad staying united and blocking out external noise. 'We want and need to be higher in the table. Burnley was a good start to achieve that,' he added. 'At any big club, there is negative and positive talk about you. It's about us sticking together and focusing on ourselves, feeding off each other.'
While acknowledging every fan's right to an opinion, Hall explained the players' mindset: 'For us, it's about not necessarily listening to it. Sometimes you can understand where people are coming from. Other times, personally, I don't agree. I always focus on what I can do and what the manager wants from us as a team. That's the most important thing; we all listen to him.'
Reasons for Optimism at St. James' Park
The defender was keen to highlight the compelling reasons for optimism surrounding Newcastle United. The Magpies are just four points off the Champions League places in the Premier League ahead of Sunday's home fixture against Crystal Palace.
Furthermore, the club remains active on multiple fronts. 'There are many reasons to be positive,' Hall affirmed. 'A couple of back-to-back wins in the league and we'll be right back up there. In the Champions League, we are in a good position. We have the Carabao Cup semi-final and a home FA Cup tie next week.'
Speaking as a lifelong fan himself, Hall concluded with a forward-looking message: 'As a Newcastle fan, there is a lot to look forward to. I can understand people not being happy with our performance in some games, but if you look at how much is left to play, and we are still in every competition, then for me as a fan and for everyone else, there is a lot to look forward to.'
