Patience has been a virtue for both Lewis Hall and Newcastle United.
The defender struggled during his first few months as a Newcastle player following an initial loan move from Chelsea and was not getting much in the way of first-team minutes.
Hall has talked openly about the difficulty he endured at first but the 20-year-old has now established himself in the first-team.
Hailed for his performance during the win over Arsenal last weekend, things have got even better for him.
Indeed, Hall was rewarded for his fine form at club level with a senior call-up to the England squad for their upcoming games against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.
Pundit Joe Cole talked up that particular prospect and, thankfully for Hall, it has come to fruition.
Speaking about the defender, interim Three Lions boss Lee Carsley revealed the thinking behind his inclusion.
Lee Carsley explains what is ‘great’ about Newcastle’s Lewis Hall after England call-up
Talking about the former Chelsea youngster, Carsley said (via BBC Sport’s LIVE blog): “Lewis has taken his time to settle in but has shown he can be consistent. He’s got a great left foot. It’s a good challenge to see if he can maintain that.”
How Lewis Hall has shocked people at Newcastle United this season
It’s fantastic to see Hall rewarded, particularly after such a difficult start. Hard work really does pay off.
Thomas Tuchel, of course, may have other ideas at left-back when he takes over the England job in the New Year but Hall has certainly put himself in a strong position.
Staff at Newcastle were understood to have been pleasantly surprised by the fact Hall is putting himself through double training sessions and adding extra hours to his schedule in an effort to improve.
In fact, people at the club are said not to have realised they signed such a dedicated individual, though of course they were aware of his talent.
After a rapid-fire improvement already, things are looking very positive indeed for Hall, Newcastle and England.
