Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed Joe Willock injury, which he sustained during the club’s pre-season friendly versus Team K League, is not as severe as first thought.
Late in the game at the Suwon World Cup Stadium, the midfielder was stretchered off and will now miss the beginning of the 2025/26 season.
Howe said, though, that the injury is in Willock’s calf rather than his Achilles, hence raising hopes of a faster return.
“We initially feared he could have injured part of his Achilles, but thankfully that wasn’t the case. But it looks like he’s got a problem with a muscle in the calf,” the gaffer revealed to the media ahead of Sunday’s clash.
“So we feel the injury isn’t as serious as maybe first feared, which is great news for Joe, but it’s still going to keep him out for a number of weeks.
“How many we’re not sure, but early diagnosis is looking four to six, which, although being a blow, is probably much better than the initial thought. So some positive news on Joe Willock,” he ended.
The Magpies will lock horns with Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in Seoul in what is to be their final pre-season friendly campaign before the new season kicks off.
Toosin is a dedicated sports writer with a strong background in crafting engaging and insightful content. With experience at Goal, he has developed a sharp editorial sense and a refined storytelling approach that brings depth and perspective to sports journalism. His passion for the game goes beyond the headlines, as he captures both the excitement of the sport and the compelling human narratives behind each event. Toosin’s work resonates with a broad and diverse audience, making global sports stories accessible, relatable, and impactful.
