The Newcastle United defender is currently out-of-contract and recovering from ankle surgery.

Jamal Lewis has been named in Newcastle United’s 25-man Premier League squad for the second half of the campaign.

The 27-year-old spent the first half of the season on loan at Brazilian giants Sao Paulo but saw his spell cut short after just six appearances because of an ankle injury that required surgery.

Although Sao Paulo had the option to sign Lewis permanently, both clubs agreed to activate the left-back’s January recall clause so he could undergo his rehabilitation in England.

“I'm disappointed that I won't be able to continue my journey with Sao Paulo FC next season,” Lewis wrote on Instagram. “I've been having an issue that's been giving me a lot of pain when I've been playing for months, requiring surgery and a few months of recovery.

“Sorry I couldn't show my gratitude to the fans for showing my true level on the pitch. I wish the tricolor all the best in the future ❤️ !“

Jamal Lewis named in Newcastle United’s 25-man Premier League squad

After being named in the Newcastle squad list submitted to the Premier League following the closure of the January transfer window, Lewis is eligible to feature in the remaining 11 league matches.

However, United boss Eddie Howe has played down the possibility of that happening, revealing his inclusion was merely a “formality.

The Magpies freed up space in their 25-man list after offloading Miguel Almiron and Lloyd Kelly to Atlanta United and Juventus, respectively. Lewis, as a contracted senior player, was effectively named by default.

Howe said: “Jamal's currently injured and receiving treatment, but he's not receiving treatment here. I think that was something we had to do as a formality, really.”

Lewis, who spent last season on loan at Championship side Watford, featured for Howe’s side in pre-season but hasn’t made a senior appearance for the club since May 2023.

The Northern Ireland international has made 36 appearances since arriving from Norwich City for £15m in 2020 and isn’t likely to add to that tally with his contract understood to expire in the summer.