Injuries have wrecked Newcastle United’s season.
Though quite whether or not they are enough to solely blame for Eddie Howe’s struggles this season is up for debate, it is hard to ignore.
Such have been the lack of available bodies this season, Newcastle have had to rely on a small group of players across a number of different competitions.
While that does not excuse those who have played of poor performances, not being able to rotate cannot have helped Howe.
Still, it seems the tide may finally be starting to turn.
Newcastle injury news: Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock latest
Indeed, according to the Daily Telegraph, Howe could soon be about to welcome back two potentially key players.
They claim both Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock are expected to return to action by the start of February.
Newcastle injuries: Barnes and Willock boost
While we’re yet to see the best of Barnes, having him back has to be seen as a positive.
A palpable goal threat at Leicester even last season despite their relegation having scored 13 goals, the £39m star could perhaps offer Anthony Gordon a much-needed rest.
Willock, meanwhile, impressed on his return against Manchester United in the Carabao Cup this season. Hailed as something different for the team by Sean Longstaff, the former Arsenal star will be a huge help for the business end of the season.
Able to create chances for the forward line, his ability to break forward has been missed. None of Newcastle’s midfielders have scored more than two Premier League goals this season, so that extra firepower should help.
Barnes and Willock make the squad stronger. To be able to call on them is one thing but to be able to rest some of the others should help their teammates too.
It’s a shame they’ve missed many of the battles Newcastle have already lost of course but, going forward, they offer Howe options.
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