Ian Wright wants people to show more appreciation for Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock.
The 24-year-old has recently returned after a lengthy injury layoff, having missed so much football this season due to an Achilles problem.
But Joe Willock is back now, and it is great to see him in a Newcastle United shirt. He has certainly impressed since his comeback, and has now started three consecutive games.
Willock has done well in recent weeks, and was particularly impressive during the Magpies’ 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers. He showed why he is so vital to this Newcastle team, with his energy in midfield and athleticism offering a different dimension to Eddie Howe’s side that has been missing for the majority of the season.
Those qualities are clear for all to see, but Ian Wright actually thinks that the £25million man deserves more credit for another aspect of his game.
Ian Wright wants Joe Willock to get more credit
Wright was speaking about Willock on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, and explained why the former Arsenal player is so talented.
“He’s a very good passer of the ball, as well,” he said.
“He’s very good at defending. He can get back. He’s got everything that you need in that midfield.
“When he was injured, they really missed him. He’s got so much quality. For him to come back with his energy, especially if they’re going to be playing on the break.
“He’s a very good passer of the ball and doesn’t get enough credit for that. He’s also able to get into the box and score goals. He can be really dangerous.”
Joe Willock produced one of the best passes ever in a Newcastle United shirt
When you talk about Willock and his passing ability, you immediately think of one clip – that assist against Tottenham Hotspur during the 6-1 win last season.
Willock produced one of the best passes that St James’ Park has ever seen last April, with the Magpies’ number 28 playing Alexander Isak through on goal with the outside of his boot, as he bent the ball behind the Spurs defence and into the striker’s path.
It was absolutely outrageous, and showcased how good a passer Willock is.
Hopefully we see more moments like that soon, and then he will start to get the appreciation that Wright thinks he deserves.
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