Newcastle United confirm ‘top’ player will definitely miss Manchester United clash in blow for Eddie Howe
James Rutherford
2 – 3 minutes
Newcastle United will not have a fully fit squad to face Manchester United on Sunday.
That comes as no surprise, as it remains unclear when Lewis Hall, Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles will be fit again.
However, there is some positive news. Anthony Gordon could return from his injury against Manchester United, while Alexander Isak is expected to be involved.
But while Gordon could be about to return to the Newcastle United fold, it is a different story for ‘top’ player Joe Willock.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Why Joe Willock will miss Newcastle United vs Manchester United
Willock missed Newcastle United’s 3-0 win over Leicester City due to a concussion.
The same concussion will now force Willock to miss the Manchester United game too, as protocols force the midfielder to sit out a second game in a row.
That is a blow for Eddie Howe, as Willock is a great option to have on the bench. The 25-year-old can be a game-changer with his speed and dribbling ability, but will sadly not be allowed to play against Man United on Sunday.
That means that Howe will have to rely on Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley as his midfield understudies, with Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton expected to start once again at St James’ Park.
Willock was Newcastle’s hero against Man United in 2023
Two years ago it was Willock who helped decide Newcastle United vs Manchester United.
Weeks after losing the 2023 Carabao Cup final against the Red Devils, Howe’s side had the chance to get revenge in the Premier League.
Before that game, Howe gave an inspiring team talk. It worked, as the Magpies beat Man United 2-0 to strengthen their Champions League charge.
Newcastle were exceptional that day, with Willock playing a pivotal role in the victory. He scored Newcastle’s opener in the second half, heading home what was a beautiful move.
Willock set his side on their way to a huge victory in April 2023, but will not be involved in the same fixture two years later.
