Newcastle United are under pressure to get back on track on Saturday.
Indeed, Eddie Howe’s side squandered what looked like a presentable chance to put pressure on the Premier League’s top five on Monday night when they fell to a disappointing 2-0 loss to West Ham.
While Newcastle may feel aggrieved at not having been awarded a penalty when Callum Wilson was brought down in the box by Kostas Mavropanos, it would be foolish to suggest Howe’s side were robbed.
They frankly were not good enough and their struggles to score goals continued. Only three teams – two of which are in the bottom three – have scored fewer times (13).
What made the night all the more frustrating was the fact Newcastle appeared to have suffered injuries during the game too.
Bruno Guimaraes came off towards the end of the game, while Joe Willock could not continue past half-time.
Still, it seems a boost has emerged.
Newcastle handed major injury boost before playing Crystal Palace
According to The Daily Mail, Willock – hailed as “underrated” by teammate Sean Longstaff – is in line to feature down at Crystal Palace this weekend.
The midfielder was spotted in training in the build-up to the game and the report seems to confirm he did not suffer a serious problem, despite Howe admitting after the game he was concerned.
Joe Willock has to make a statement for Newcastle
Willock has endured a mixed start to the season. Undoubtedly a key player when at his very best, some of his early performances were said to have frustrated staff behind the scenes.
Little about Newcastle’s midfield has fully convinced this season. With Guimaraes potentially missing, something Howe has rarely had to deal with since he signed, perhaps an opportunity has opened up.
It’s time to see what another kind of set-up can offer.
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