Eddie Howe, Newcastle United’s manager, has revealed that one player will not be available against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.
The Magpies are currently dealing with a slew of injuries, including Joelinton, Nick Pope, and Sven Botman, who will miss this weekend’s match against Tottenham. Sandro Tonali will also be absent, since he is still serving his betting penalty.
Eddie Howe’s squad is currently extremely stretched, and the players are doing everything they can to qualify for Europe. Sean Longstaff and others are playing through pain, but one of their teammates will be rested, according to the management.
Newcastle midfielder to miss Tottenham game on Saturday
Howe addressed the media ahead of Newcastle United’s Premier League meeting with Tottenham Hotspur.
He provided an update on Joe Willock’s fitness after the 24-year-old was forced off during the first half of last weekend’s victory over Fulham.
The midfielder was not featured in any of the club’s training images this week, raising questions about his availability against Tottenham, and Howe has now confirmed that he will not play.
“Joe has been to see another specialist to check on the progress of his Achilles, which has been problematic for him,” the doctor stated.
“The feedback was positive.” I doubt he will be available for Tottenham. We need to make sure his long-term prognosis is good, therefore he may need to relax.
🎙️ Eddie Howe has been speaking to the media ahead of #NEWTOT tomorrow:
On Joe Willock:
"Joe has been to see another specialist to check on the progress of his achilles, which has been problematic for him. The feedback was positive. For Tottenham, I don’t think he will be… pic.twitter.com/ilRi3D0JBG
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) April 12, 2024
Joe Willock injury gives Newcastle youngster a chance
With Willock out, at least one alteration will be made to the Toon starting eleven that faced Fulham at Craven Cottage last week.
Howe will be obliged to overhaul his midfield, and there is really just one way to replace Willock.
His injury should result in Elliot Anderson returning to the starting lineup, which will be very exciting for Newcastle fans. The 21-year-old has looked fantastic after recovering from a back injury, and we previously predicted that he will be a regular starter for the remainder of the season.
With Willock battling with fitness, Anderson may be just that. He is almost expected to start against Spurs with Bruno Guimaraes and Sean Longstaff.
The only other option is Joe White, who has yet to start a competitive game in his Newcastle career. Alternatively, Howe might modify his system to merely use two center-midfielders. However, considering the scarcity of other options, this is quite unlikely.
Newcastle’s squad is being further stretched with each passing week, and Willock is the latest to fall in what has been a terrible season for the former Arsenal star.
