Injury report on Newcastle's standout player following distressing on-field incident, as stated by manager Eddie Howe
Newcastle United Face Injury Concerns Ahead of Premier League Kickoff
Newcastle United are bracing themselves for a potential absence of midfielder Joe Willock, who sustained a calf injury during a pre-season friendly against a K-League XI in South Korea. The injury occurred during a 50/50 challenge in the final minutes of the match, and initial fears suggested Willock may have injured part of his Achilles. However, further examination revealed a problem with a muscle in his calf[1][2][3][5].
The exact return date for Willock remains uncertain, but Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has revealed that the English footballer may not return to the pitch until September[6]. This injury is causing concern about Newcastle’s midfield depth and tactical setup for the start of the season.
Willock, who joined Newcastle from Arsenal in 2021, made 41 appearances for the club last season. The Magpies finished fifth in the Premier League and secured Champions League football, while also winning the Carabao Cup[8].
Meanwhile, transfer speculation surrounds star striker Alexander Isak, who has not attended pre-season with Newcastle. Liverpool made a £110m offer for Isak on Friday morning, but it was turned down by the club[7]. Manager Eddie Howe is "very much removed" from the situation regarding Isak's potential transfer[4].
Newcastle's first Premier League match of the season is a trip to Aston Villa on August 16, 2025. So far, the club have only signed Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest for £55million in the transfer window[9]. The absence of Willock, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding Isak, could pose a challenge for Newcastle as they look to build on their successful 2024-2025 season.
References:
- BBC Sport
- The Guardian
- The Independent
- Newcastle Chronicle
- Sky Sports
- The Athletic
- ESPN
- Newcastle United FC
- The Times
- Despite the transfer rumors swirling around Alexander Isak, manager Eddie Howe has distanced himself from the situation.
- The Premier League kickoff is fast approaching, but Newcastle United's tactical setup might be affected due to Joe Willock's calf injury.
- Newcastle United's midfield depth could be tested in the coming days, with Joe Willock potentially out until September.
- Although they've secured Champions League football, Newcastle's success in European-leagues will partly rely on their ability to handle key injuries like Willock's.
