Why Joe Willock missed Newcastle United's friendly against Yokohama F. Marinos

Eddie Howe made four changes from the 4-1 win over Urawa Red Diamonds on Wednesday with Bruno Guimaraes coming in to the captain as Willock made way.

The former Arsenal man marked his first appearance since April by playing a key part in both first-half goals at the Saitama Stadium. But Eddie Howe resisted against giving him more minutes versus Yokohama.

NewcastleWorld understands there are no concerns over Willock, it is just a case of managing his workload.

Reflecting on Willock’s return from injury this week, Howe said: “I think Joe will be the first to admit that there is more to come. He's had some good training with us, he's been training for a period of time but there is nothing like games - that is the only thing that can take your game back to where it was.

“[Wednesday] was his first taste, 45 minutes was planned for him and Sean [Longstaff] tonight. Pleased that both came through with no problems.

“You can see his qualities, the assist for the first goal, the breaks from midfield, the energetic the box-to-box ability - he's a goal threat and goal creator as well. Massive player, we've missed him and that was his first steps back.” 

Konnichiwa! Newcastle United are in Japan - and so too are NewcastleWorld!

Our Newcastle United writer Jordan Cronin is there all week, providing coverage of the tour, behind the scenes video and analysis from Tokyo. 

And we’re proud to announce that our Newcastle United coverage of the tour has a sponsor! Every story from Japan is sponsored by Mobility Care Solutions Ltd, with the shop’s official mascot Murphy!

Eddie Howe's men take on Urawa Red Diamonds at the Saitama Stadium on Wednesday, July 31. They then face J.League runners-up Yokohama F. Marinos on Saturday, August 3.

For more information on Mobility Care Solutions Ltd click this link.