Joe Willock, Newcastle United, Magpies, St James' Park, Premier League
Eddie Howe says that Joe Willock is ‘touch and go’ to be fit for Newcastle United for the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.
The Lowdown: On the sidelines
Willock had to be forced off through injury during the first half of Newcastle’s 1-1 draw at Bournemouth in the Premier League earlier this month, with Howe admitting that he was concerned over the extent of the issue.
Consequently, he was left out of the squad for their 2-0 loss at home to Liverpool on Saturday evening, and will be sweating over whether he can make his return in the final.
The Latest: ‘Touch and go’
Speaking to the media, Howe has claimed (via The Northern Echo) that Willock will be ‘touch and go’ in terms of being fit for the final, and that they will have to make a ‘late decision’ on him:
“He’ll be touch and go during the week.
“He’s improved, it will probably be a late decision on him.”
The Verdict: Fingers crossed!
All fingers will be crossed in terms of hoping that Willock will be fit enough to play in the final for the Magpies.
He has been one of their standout players in an impressive Premier League season, scoring two goals and making two assists, as well as ranking highly among his team-mates for average tackles, interceptions, blocks, shots, key passes, dribbles, pass success and crosses per game (WhoScored).
Willock also has the experience of playing in a major domestic final before, having won the FA Cup with Arsenal in 2020, and so his experience could prove vital in trying to overcome United on Sunday.
About the Author
