Newcastle United star facing six month on sidelines

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has provided an injury update on Joe Willock.

The Magpies have been without the former Arsenal midfielder since May when he sustained a hamstring injury during the penultimate home game of the 2022-23 campaign against Brighton and Hove Albion.

Willock was initially due to return during the pre-season trip to the United States but suffered a setback. United then hoped to have him available after the September international break but he sustained a new Achilles injury.

The 24-year-old still has a “way to go” before returning but Howe hopes he will resume full training at the end of October at the latest.

“He’s doing well,” Howe told NewcastleWorld. “He’s in a different phase of his comeback now - he’s on the grass, not with us but the physios and sports scientists really trying to build up his resilience and load. Doing well and looks happy.

“I think the physios have set quite a good time for him to come back. I don’t think we’re going to rush him back, I think we’re going to be careful.

“He’s still got a way to go. I think he’s due to return to training towards the middle to end of October and then of course he’ll need a little bit of time to get his proper fitness back.”

With a return to action not looking likely until November, it means Willock will have spent six months out.

Willock made 35 appearances last season where he scored six goals and provided six assists as the Magpies sealed Champions League qualification.