Newcastle United have an injury concern coming out of their defeat to Brentford – but just a minor one.
Eddie Howe made two changes to his starting lineup on Saturday, with Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon dropping out of the side for Sean Longstaff and Harvey Barnes. The decision angered some Newcastle United fans, despite Howe admitting that both players were fatigued from the Liverpool game.
The Newcastle United manager freshened up his starting XI amid this busy run of games, but was unable to call upon Joe Willock.
When the team news was confirmed, Joe Willock was conspicuous by his absence. He was dropped from the starting XI for the draw with Liverpool, while the 25-year-old was not even on the bench on Saturday.
Now Eddie Howe has confirmed why Willock missed Newcastle’s 4-2 defeat to Brentford, sharing some good and bad news on the £25million man.
Eddie Howe explains Joe Willock absence
Joe Willock of Newcastle United runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and Newcastle United FC at Selhurst P...
Photo by Harriet Massey/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Following Newcastle’s loss to Brentford, Howe spoke to the Shields Gazette.
He explained why Willock missed the trip to the capital.
“I don’t think it’s serious,” he said.
“He’s had a hamstring problem, a very minor one.”
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Newcastle United need Willock for crucial period
In recent weeks, the Newcastle squad has looked so much stronger. Howe has been blessed with multiple options on the bench.
And while Newcastle’s bench was still strong away to Brentford, it would have been much stronger had Willock been available.
That is why it is good news that he has only sustained a minor injury. Hopefully it is something he can quickly shake off – ideally in time for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Leicester City. Just days after that game, Newcastle face Brentford again in the Carabao Cup quarter-final.
The Magpies are in the midst of an extremely busy period, while their form is questionable. That is why Howe desperately needs Willock to be fit and available. Firstly, he needs as many bodies as possible. Secondly, a player like Willock can be a game-changer from the bench.
While it was disappointing to see him miss Saturday’s game, it is good news to hear that it is only a minor injury. Given what Willock endured last season, the last thing he needs is another lengthy spell on the sidelines.
But this is hopefully just a brief injury layoff. Toon fans will have their fingers crossed that he is back in the squad on Saturday.
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