Eddie Howe names the two Newcastle stars who play ‘really well’ together

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Eddie Howe was full of praise for two of his Newcastle United players following the 2-0 win over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.

Newcastle marched into the quarter-finals with an impressive victory over the Blues, who beat them on Sunday in the Premier League.

It was a promising night at St James’ Park. Indeed, Howe’s side looked like something approaching their best again and the changes made by the Newcastle United manager certainly paid off.

Sandro Tonali impressed in a deeper midfield role, while Lloyd Kelly put in a commanding display in central defence.

Still, Howe was keen to praise one particular duo…

Eddie Howe says two Newcastle players work so well together

Speaking to The Shields Gazette after the game, Howe talked up both Joelinton and Joe Willock.

The pair both started in front of Lewis Hall at left-back and Howe was blown away by their performances.

“When Joelinton and Willock play together they dovetail that position really well,” he said.

“I’m not sure what the final solution for that is other than we have got very good players competing for positions.”

Joe Willock responded to frustration at Newcastle

Joelinton may have missed a sitter in the opening few minutes but that is the kind of relentless display he’s become famous for. Involved in the first goal thanks to his intense pressing, it was the kind of outing that saw him turn his Newcastle career around under Howe’s watch.

Willock, meanwhile, is another case entirely. Some members of staff at the club were understood to have been frustrated about his performances this season but more displays like the one against Chelsea will surely make that a thing of the past.

The two are compelling options in midfield and attack, which feels important after Howe suggested the trio of Joelinton, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes can all improve following Sunday’s defeat.

Fitness permitting, fans can surely expect to see Willock and Joelinton build on their partnership more regularly going forward now.

That is exciting.