**Eddie Howe has been blessed this season with options all over the pitch, allowing him to tweak his Newcastle United lineup as needed.**
Of course, it hasn't all gone his way, with injuries and suspensions playing their part in stripping the manager of some options.
Additionally, some players just haven't lived up to expectations as they struggle to find form for whatever reason.
Anthony Elanga seems to be finding it hard to adapt to Newcastle's style of play, while Joe Willock has looked a shadow of his former self after a series of injury setbacks.
Eddie Howe name-dropped Joe Willock unprompted, showing his faith in the midfielder
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When addressing the media on Friday, Eddie Howe dropped the name of Joe Willock when discussing the strength in depth he has available in midfield.
> “I don’t think you can underestimate the strength of the midfield players we have.“We forget Joe Willock’s qualities. He’s been an outstanding player for us, historically. We’re just trying to get Joe back to his very best form.
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> “All those players will bring their own unique qualities in that position.”
Can Joe Willock recapture his form?
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Eddie Howe clearly still has full faith in Joe Willock when perhaps that of the fanbase is waning after a string of unconvincing appearances.
The fact that Howe persists with giving him a shot, and so often at the expense of Lewis Miley, does suggest that Howe sees something in Willock that many fans don't.
We know how good Willock can be, but that was so long ago now. The question is whether the 26-year-old can get close to those heights again for Newcastle.