An update on Joe Willock on Tuesday.
The midfielder having last played in the match at Fulham, where he started the game but was subbed off before half-time through injury.
A campaign blighted by injuries has seen him make just fourteen appearances so far this season, with nine starts and five sub appearances.
However, that will be it according to an exclusive from The Mail today.
They report that their information is that:
‘After a visit to a specialist, it was confirmed that he could, in theory, continue to play, but we understand the plan is to combine a programme of rest and strength work to get the Achilles right ahead of pre-season.
Eddie Howe wants Willock free of the problem for good and, given the player has performed below his usual high standards in recent weeks, it is felt the best option is to call time on his campaign.’
Whilst we all want Newcastle United to finish off this season in the best way possible, this seems the right decision for sure.
Rather than risk Joe Willock in these remaining half dozen games that will hopefully ensure some kind of European football next season, far better to look after the former Arsenal midfielder and try to ensure he has the best chance possible of returning to competitive action in four months time for the start of the 2024/25 season.
Give him the rest and behind the scenes treatment that will allow him (hopefully!) to shake off this Achilles problem for good.