Joe Willock is determined to put his injury problems behind him after making three consecutive starts for Newcastle United, something he hasn’t done since March. His recent run of form began with a 2-0 win in the Carabao Cup against Chelsea last month, followed by Premier League victories over Arsenal and Nottingham Forest. Despite starting all three matches, however, Willock was substituted by manager Eddie Howe before the 70-minute mark in each of them.
Willock’s recovery has been a long and frustrating process. After missing 37 games last season due to injury, this season has been a more positive one for the 25-year-old, who has only missed one match so far. The midfielder has expressed confidence about his physical condition, saying that he feels he is getting closer to his best. In an interview, he spoke about the challenges of returning to full fitness after a long period out: “It’s good to get my minutes up and get my feet back under the table,” he said. “The Premier League is so hard to get back into and get started at your best again, but I feel good now.” He added that he is looking forward to contributing more to the team in terms of goals and assists, something he has always been capable of when fully fit.
Ahead of Newcastle’s next Premier League match against West Ham United, Willock took part in a warm-weather training camp in Saudi Arabia along with 12 other first-team players. The camp, which was aimed at improving fitness and recovery, has been a valuable opportunity for Willock to push his conditioning further. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “It’s very warm, but I think it will be good for us, helping us improve our fitness and get prepared for the next matches.” Willock is optimistic about his progress, adding that he feels as though he is getting back to his best and that he is now ready to make a more significant impact for Newcastle in the upcoming fixtures.
One of the key challenges for Willock has been competing for a place in the starting lineup with other midfielders like Sandro Tonali, who has found himself on the bench in the last two league matches. Willock has taken the left-side midfield role, which is a position Tonali often plays for Italy, and has impressed with his work rate and energy. While Tonali hasn’t started the last two Premier League games, he has still contributed with assists, including one for Harvey Barnes in the match against Nottingham Forest. Despite this, it’s clear that Willock’s return to form has been a boost for Newcastle, particularly with the team yet to lose a game in which Willock has started this season.
Manager Eddie Howe has also highlighted Willock’s importance to the team, stressing that the midfielder brings a different dimension to Newcastle’s midfield. Howe praised Willock’s physical attributes, particularly his ability to run box-to-box and cover ground quickly, a trait that makes him a unique asset for the team. “He’s been a big miss for us,” Howe said, adding that Willock’s return has made a noticeable difference in the team’s balance and ability to control matches. Howe also noted that Willock looked particularly sharp in the win over Chelsea, calling it his best performance since his comeback.
Willock’s progress is not just a personal victory but also a major boost for Newcastle as they continue to build momentum ahead of the match against West Ham. With both Willock and Tonali vying for spots in the starting lineup, the competition for places in midfield is fierce, which is a positive problem for Howe to have. The team’s depth and form have been improving, and with key players returning to full fitness, Newcastle is becoming a more formidable side. Willock, for his part, remains focused on continuing his development and contributing to his team’s success, particularly in front of their home fans at St James’ Park. The upcoming match against West Ham represents another chance for him to prove his value and continue his comeback from injury. For Newcastle, it’s a promising sign that Willock is on the road to rediscovering his best form, and his presence in the midfield will be crucial as the team pushes for a successful season.
