Report: How Joe Willock feels ahead of Newcastle’s Carabao Cup final

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Newcastle United are still yet to know whether or not Joe Willock will be available for this Sunday’s Carabao Cup final clash with Manchester United.

Willock limped off against Bournemouth with a hamstring injury, and has since been involved in a race against time to prove his fitness for the Carabao Cup final.

The Magpies did receive a boost during the week, as the 23-year-old was pictured in training with the rest of the first-team. However, he may have just been fitness work rather than ball work.

Regardless, he is back on the grass, which increases the possibility of a Wembley return for Willock.

Joe Willock desperate to play in the Carabao Cup final

The Telegraph have now provided an update on Willock’s recovery. They report that the midfielder has responded well to treatment, having not played in almost two weeks.

Their report adds that Willock is desperate to be involved in the Carabao Cup final, with the coaching staff prepared to make a last minute decision on his fitness.

It is no surprise that Willock is so keen to be involved at Wembley. He has been a major player for the Magpies this season, and deserves to be part of the side that takes on Manchester United.

Joe Willock has been to Wembley before

The £25million man is one of few players in Eddie Howe’s squad that actually has experience of a Wembley final. He was on the bench when Arsenal won the 2020 FA Cup against Chelsea. However, that game was very unique as it was held in front of no supporters due to the pandemic.

Willock didn’t feature, then there were no supporters to celebrate with after the full time whistle. In contrast, Wembley will be a cauldron of black and white noise if the Magpies come out on top.

Hopefully he is able to prove his fitness and take a place in Howe’s matchday squad on Sunday. However, he may have to settle for a place on the bench even if he is declared fit. That is where he is in our predicted starting lineup.

But Willock would be a great substitute option, and his incredible speed and energy could make him a real threat on the huge Wembley pitch.

He is unsurprisingly desperate to play. This is the first time in his career that he is an important first-team player, and has had a major role in the side getting to the final. Fingers crossed he makes it.