Eddie Howe on Joe Willock after forced off against Forest – That’s why it is devastating for us…


 
 
 
 
 
 

Joe Willock had last started a game on 6 April 2024, the 1-0 win at Fulham seeing him subbed off with injury on 40 minutes and replaced by Elliot Anderson. That was one of only five Premier League starts for the former Arsenal player, due to injury.

Almost five months later, last night saw Joe Willock line up against Elliot Anderson, as Newcastle United faced Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup.

In the opening seconds a flowing move saw Tonali feed Almiron and his first time ball released Alexander Isak, the striker running to the edge of the box and shooting across the Forest keeper who could only parry, Joe Willock making the run that saw him take advantage and knock the ball into the net.

A dream start for Joe Willock and Newcastle United, in the lead with less than 20 seconds on the clock.

However, that dream for the midfielder quickly became a nightmare.

Doing a great job to snuff out danger in his own box, Joe Willock suddenly pulling up in pain when his left leg landed on the ground.

Only 10 minutes on the clock but after treatment, Willock giving it another go.

However, that lasted no time at all and Joe Willock limped off with only 15 minutes gone.

Eddie Howe talking about his midfielder after the win on penalties…

Eddie Howe talking to NUFC TV after Joe Willock scored and then was forced off with injury, in the Carabao Cup win over Nottingham Forest – 28 August 2024:

“We are aware of the game on Sunday against Spurs and I wanted to protect a couple of players.

“I wanted to protect Bruno a bit more than I was able to.

“Joe Willock picked up an injury.

“Terrible luck for Joe.

“I don’t know how bad it is but it was enough to take him off the pitch.

“That was a huge blow for us.

“That actually knocked our rhythm I think.

“He said he felt a little bit of pain in his thigh, when he hit the ground I think.

“He thought it was cramp initially, carried on, but it wasn’t to be.”

Interviewer:

“Joe Willock had given Newcastle the lead, was that just a reminder of what a good player he is?”

Eddie Howe:

“That’s why it is devastating for us because he is such a top player.

“He showed that against Bournemouth, he came on and injected energy and pace into our midfield.

“Today he scored a goal in the time that he was on.

“I’m just devastated for him if it’s another injury that does keep him out.

“Because he has worked so hard to get fit and you just want to see him have a run of games and play with confidence.

“Just enjoy his football again.

“We have tried to do everything right, nurse him back, not chuck him back into the team.

“So it will be a huge blow if he is out.”

Nottingham Forest 1 Newcastle 1 – United win 4-3 on penalties : Wednesday 28 August 8pm

Goals:

Newcastle United:

Willock 1

Forest:

Jota Silva 50

(Half-time stats in brackets)

Possession was Newcastle 59%  (53%) Forest 41% (47%)

Total shots were Newcastle 14 (6) Forest 12 (8)

Shots on target were Newcastle 7 (4) Forest 3 (1)

Corners were Newcastle 5 (1) Forest 3 (2)

Touches in the box Newcastle 20 (9) Forest 21 (17)

Newcastle United team v Forest:

Pope, Trippier (Livarmento 62), Krafth, Burn, Hall, Tonali (Longstaff 62), Joelinton, Willock (Bruno 15), Barnes, Isak, Almiron (Gordon 61)

Unused subs:

Ruddy, Targett, Osula, Jacob Murphy, Kelly

(Nottingham Forest 1 Newcastle 1 – United win 4-3 on penalties (never in doubt!) – Read HERE)

(Newcastle United get AFC Wimbledon – Carabao Cup third round draw – Read HERE)

(Nottingham Forest 1 Newcastle 1 (United win 4-3 on penalties) – Instant Newcastle United fan / writer reaction – Read HERE)

Newcastle United schedule to end of October 2024:

Friday 30 August 2024 – Summer transfer window closes at 11pm.

Sunday 1 September 2024 – Newcastle v Tottenham (1.30pm) Sky Sports

(The first international break of the season)

Sunday 15 September 2024 – Wolves v Newcastle (4.30 pm) Sky Sports

Weeks commencing Monday 16 September AND Monday 23 September – Carabao Cup round three (This round split over two midweeks)

Saturday 21 September 2024 – Fulham v Newcastle (3 pm)

Weeks commencing Monday 16 September AND Monday 23 September – Carabao Cup round three (This round split over two midweeks)

Saturday 28 September 2024 – Newcastle v Man City (12.30 pm) TNT Sports

Saturday 5 October – Everton v Newcastle (5pm) Sky Sports

Saturday 19 October – Newcastle v Brighton (3pm)

Sunday 27 October – Chelsea v Newcastle (2pm) Sky Sports