Joe Willock, who has been under careful management by Newcastle United’s head coach Eddie Howe, has experienced some injury concerns recently. Howe has been diligent in managing Willock’s condition to provide him with the best opportunity to return to full fitness and avoid further injury, especially after the player’s unfortunate luck with injuries last season.
On the opening day of the season, during a 10-man victory over Southampton, Willock was an unused substitute. However, he made a significant impact in Newcastle United’s 1-1 draw against Bournemouth. Willock came on with 21 minutes remaining in the match, and Newcastle was trailing 1-0. Despite the team’s efforts, Willock’s performance was a positive sign.
In the subsequent match, which was a cup game against Nottingham Forest, Willock was anticipated to make his first start of the season. The match began sensationally for Willock, who scored a goal just 18 seconds into the game. Unfortunately, this promising start was marred when Willock experienced severe pain and had to leave the field just 10 minutes later, holding his thigh.
Willock returned briefly but was unable to continue and had to leave the pitch permanently after only 15 minutes of play. Following the Nottingham Forest match, Eddie Howe provided an update stating that the initial scans were reassuring, indicating that there was no significant new injury. Despite this, Howe exercised caution, noting that a definitive assessment would only be possible after further scans and once the situation had stabilized.
The latest update, as of Thursday, confirms that Joe Willock is expected to return to action within this month. The injury sustained during the Nottingham Forest match is reported to be a minor issue, specifically described as a ‘small tear on the surface of the muscle’. This type of injury typically requires around two weeks for recovery. Although Willock may be doubtful for Newcastle’s upcoming trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers the following Sunday, there is relief that the injury was not more serious, particularly given Willock’s previous fitness issues.
The Mail, in its report dated September 5, 2024, states that Joe Willock is projected to be available for the next series of fixtures following the international break. The report indicates that the scan revealed a minor muscle tear which is expected to heal within the typical recovery period of approximately two weeks. While there remains some uncertainty about his participation in the match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Newcastle United is relieved that the injury is not as severe as initially feared, especially considering Willock’s past injury problems.
