Newcastle United’s season has been significantly impacted by injuries, forcing manager Eddie Howe to constantly adapt and find makeshift solutions. Despite these challenges, the team has managed a solid unbeaten run of four Premier League games as the season nears its conclusion. However, the injury woes have not subsided, with the latest blow being the loss of Joe Willock for the remainder of the season.
Willock, who had already missed much of the campaign due to an Achilles injury, had recently returned in February. Unfortunately, Newcastle has decided to rest him again to avoid any further damage, ruling him out for the rest of the season. This decision, while frustrating for the player, is seen as a prudent move to ensure he can fully recover and be fit for the next season.
Newcastle’s injury list is extensive, with Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman also suffering ACL injuries that will keep them out for an extended period. Despite these setbacks, Howe has managed to keep the team competitive, which is a testament to his adaptability and management skills.
Willock’s absence is particularly significant because of the unique qualities he brings to the Newcastle midfield. Known for his goalscoring ability, Willock provides a crucial threat from midfield, something that has been missing in his absence. His performances during his initial loan spell in the 2020/21 season, where he scored eight goals in 11 games, highlighted his potential to be a game-changer for the Magpies.
Howe has praised Willock’s maturity and dedication to his rehab, noting that these qualities have shown in his play. However, Newcastle will have to wait until next season to benefit from Willock’s “unique mix” of skills, which could be a significant loss in their pursuit of a Europa League spot. The focus now will be on getting him fully fit for pre-season, with the hope that he can return to his best form and make a significant impact next season.
GET MORE RELATED CONTENT ON SPORTWORDS.CO.UK
Leave a Reply