Joe Willock has been excluded from Newcastle United’s matchday squad for the match against Yokohama F. Marinos at the Japan National Stadium.
Bruno Guimaraes replaced Willock in Eddie Howe’s lineup, which prevailed over Urawa Red Diamonds 4-1 on Wednesday. Lloyd Kelly, Fabian Schar, and Miguel Almiron were also granted their initial preseason starts.
On Wednesday, Willock contributed to two goals for Newcastle in an impressive first half performance at the Saitama Stadium. However, he was excluded from the squad for the match against Yokohama.
The Gazette is aware that Willock’s burden is being managed, as Wednesday night’s match was his first game back from injury after nearly four months of absence. There are no concerns regarding his health. The 24-year-old midfielder, who was also sidelined for the majority of the previous season due to injury, sat in the stands to observe the match at the Tokyo National Stadium, along with Sandro Tonali, Mark Gillespie, and Martin Dubravka, all of whom are goalkeepers.
In response to Willock’s return from injury this week, Howe stated, “I believe Joe will be the first to acknowledge that there is more to come.” He has received some beneficial training from us and has been training for a period of time. However, there is nothing quite like playing games; they are the only thing that can restore your game to its former state.
“He had his first experience on Wednesday, and Sean Longstaff and I were scheduled to meet for 45 minutes tonight.” I am pleased to report that both transactions were completed without incident.
“His qualities are evident in the assist for the first goal, the breaks from midfield, the energetic box-to-box ability, and the fact that he is a goal threat and goal creator.” We have been missing him, and that was his first stride back. He is a significant player.
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