Eddie Howe was very impressed with Joe Willock’s latest Newcastle United display amid transfer interest from Crystal Palace.
Willock played for Newcastle United against Marseille in what was only his third start of the season.
Howe’s decision to select the 26-year-old ahead of summer signing Jacob Ramsey was somewhat surprising.
Imagine a world where Newcastle United are FORCED to sell one player in January. Who should it be? Let us know!
Still, Willock played reasonably well out in France and played a role in the goal scored by Harvey Barnes.
The former Arsenal midfielder has been in the headlines of late, too.
Indeed, Crystal Palace are interested in signing Willock, although Howe looks very pleased with what he saw from the midfielder.
Willock is only under contract until the summer of 2027 at St James’ Park and, given his lack of game time, an exit by then has often seemed likely.
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Eddie Howe praises Joe Willock amid Crystal Palace interest
The Newcastle United manager was asked about Willock’s display in the Champions League.
Howe believes that was Willock’s best game since he suffered a nasty Achilles injury during the 2023/24 season.
Willock has consistently suffered with injury issues but Howe appears to think things are on the up for him.
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“Joe was excellent,” he said during his press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash against Everton.
“He has trained well the last few weeks, he has really focused on trying to impress. I think that was his best performance since his injury.
“He has had good games in between, but he felt physically good, I was really pleased for him.”
The January transfer signing who could replace Joe Willock at Newcastle United
It seems unlikely that Newcastle would let Willock leave in the January transfer window unless they sign a replacement.
During the summer window, Howe confirmed he wanted six central midfielders in the Newcastle squad.
They generally use three central midfielders per game, so the likes of Willock, Ramsey and Lewis Miley are important back-up options considering Newcastle’s relentless fixture schedule.
Still, perhaps there is a potential replacement in mind.
Geordie Boot Boys understands Newcastle are interested in signing AZ Alkmaar Kees Smit, although it remains unclear if they will make a move in January.
Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid have all been linked with a move for the 19-year-old, too.
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