After Newcastle United transfer decision midfielder won’t play v Fulham

Joe White, who recently concluded a loan spell at Crewe Alexandra, is now undergoing training with Newcastle United’s first-team. Despite Crewe’s interest in extending the loan and other EFL clubs expressing interest in acquiring the 21-year-old for the rest of the season, Newcastle chose to recall him to train with Eddie Howe’s squad, which is currently facing a shortage.

Newcastle heads into the FA Cup fourth-round clash with Fulham with only three available central midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Sean Longstaff, and Lewis Miley. While White has been contributing to training, he is ineligible for the Saturday match due to being cup-tied.

During his loan at Crewe, White played a crucial role, featuring in the 2-2 draw and 3-1 replay win against Derby County in the first round and the 4-2 defeat to Bristol Rovers in the second round. In a total of 25 appearances for the League Two side, he scored three goals and provided three assists.

 

 

FA Cup regulations prevent players from representing two clubs in the same season, but there is a possibility for White to make his first-team debut in the upcoming weeks, especially with Joelinton sidelined for the season due to thigh surgery. This could position White as Newcastle’s fourth-choice midfielder when they return to Premier League action against Aston Villa.

Eddie Howe expressed his optimism about White’s return, stating that it presents an opportunity for him to showcase his development. While acknowledging White’s progress during the loan, Howe emphasized the need to assess his current level and make decisions accordingly.

White’s return coincides with Newcastle’s inability to reinforce their midfield during the transfer window. The club failed to secure a loan move for Kalvin Phillips due to Manchester City’s excessive loan fee demands. Despite transfer speculation surrounding players like Kieran Trippier and Miguel Almiron, they were present on the training ground. However, captain Jamaal Lascelles was not present, fueling rumors of a potential move to Turkey.