Newcastle United do not boast the same kind of squad as some of their competitors.
While few would doubt the fact that Newcastle have some brilliant players at their disposal, depth is obviously an issue in certain areas.
Indeed, an inability to spend due to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) has left manager Eddie Howe with reasonably limited options.
With that in mind, the Newcastle United manager has had to make do with what he’s got.
Joelinton has become a central midfielder under Howe’s watch. The Brazilian has even been tried at right-wing too to cover for a lack of a new signing there, as has Anthony Gordon.
Howe also hinted striker William Osula could move to right wing when speaking after Newcastle’s 3-2 win over Birmingham, having impressed in the FA Cup.
Now, it seems Joe Willock could be in line to move out to the wing too.
Eddie Howe hints Joe Willock could change position at Newcastle United
Willock bagged a brace at St Andrew’s, getting Newcastle back onto level terms with a controversial goal before netting the winner late on.
Howe was impressed with Willock for his performance, with the £25million star operating out on the left wing due to injuries to both Gordon and Harvey Barnes.
In an ideal world, Gordon would be back in action soon with Barnes as his back-up but Howe hinted Willock could be an option out on the left rather than in central midfield.
“It was interesting to see him him there,” Howe said (via The Northern Echo). “With Anthony’s injury, we played Joe in his position as a wide-left player.
“I thought he did really well. I think he’s got the running capacity to play in that position. It’s different to playing infield, but he’s got the pace to take players on and engage in those one-on-one actions.
“He’s also then got the technique to come into pockets, and come inside and shoot on his right foot. I thought he looked a threat throughout the game.
“The beauty of Joe when he does play inside, as a midfielder, is that he drifts wide a lot anyway. So I think he’s really comfortable in those wide areas.”
Newcastle United need Joe Willock now more than ever
There’s also a chance for Willock in midfield, given Joelinton is expected to miss a few weeks of action with a thigh injury.
With that in mind, it was promising to see the former Arsenal youngster back amongst the goals. A hugely important figure during the 2022/23 campaign, it would be fantastic to see him regain that kind of stature in Howe’s team.
Whatever role that may await Willock, he’s capable of making an impact.
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