‘Excellent’: Howe raves about 23-year-old Newcastle player, claims he has big plans for him this year

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Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has raved about midfield star Joe Willock, claiming he has a big year ahead of him.

Speaking in his post-match press conference after the Leeds stalemate, the Toon boss hailed praise on the 23-year-old, who has enjoyed a fantastic first half to the Premier League season.

“I have been really pleased with Joe. I think he is maturing nicely,” Howe said.

“I think he’s got really good raw ability. He’s very athletic and has an eye for goal, technically he’s very good and tactically he is improving.

“He has been excellent for me. I have forged an excellent relationship with him, and I really like him as a person.

“I think the big thing with Joe is there’s a lot more to come. And I am excited about his future.”

Howe raves about Willock

The former Arsenal ace has become a mainstay in the middle of the park for the Magpies this season.

The midfielder has played 17 times in the Premier League, during which he has contributed two goals and two assists. He has impressively averaged 1.8 tackles per game, complimenting this with a strong 84.1% pass success rate.

Alongside Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes, Willock has become a staple in Howe’s preferred midfield three.

However, with plans to draft in a new central player to add to the squad, the 23-year-old’s place in the team could be under threat.

Therefore, such comments from the manager will fill the youngster with hope, as he continues to progress on Tyneside and retain his spot in the starting XI.