Newcastle United have received a boost ahead of facing Liverpool on Monday night.
While Alexander Isak is not going to return from his exile, the Newcastle United squad will be a little bit stronger from the one that drew 0-0 with Aston Villa.
Newcastle have signed Jacob Ramsey, and he looks poised to make his debut against the Reds at St James’ Park.
That will add a bit of depth to Eddie Howe’s bench, and he is not the only midfielder that is suddenly pushing to be involved on Monday night.
Sven Botman and Joe Willock pose for a photo during Newcastle United's pre-season game against Tottenham Hotspur.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Joe Willock back in Newcastle United training
Joe Willock has not played for the Magpies since the friendly defeat to Team K League over in South Korea.
Willock suffered an injury that day, with fears that he would be out until October.
However, an update from the Newcastle United training ground suggests that he is much closer to a return.
The club have shared images from one of Eddie Howe’s training sessions this week, and Willock can be seen taking part. The 26-year-old is pictured running with the ball away from Will Osula, which would suggest he is in full-contact training.
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That is great news, as Howe’s squad was clearly lacking attacking options at Villa Park on Saturday.
Joe Willock suddenly has more competition at Newcastle United
It is a timely return for Willock, who suddenly has a big problem at Newcastle United.
The arrival of Jacob Ramsey threatens his involvement in black and white, with both players preferring to operate on the left of a midfield three.
Having once been so important to Newcastle United, injuries have really stunted Willock’s progress over the past couple of years. Now he is at risk of slipping further down the pecking order, with Willock’s Newcastle future uncertain.
However, that should serve as motivation for a player who was once tipped to play for England due to his Toon performances.