Steve Bruce explains shock Joe Willock inclusion vs Watford

Add as preferred source on Google

It was a huge surprise to see Joe Willock in Newcastle’s starting XI against Watford.

The midfielder was pictured wearing a protective boot in the buildup to the game, and it was even reported that he was set for a spell on the sidelines.

Sky Sports’ Keith Downie stated on Friday that Willock was going to miss our next two games against Watford and Wolves.

But a shock emerged at 2pm on Saturday, when Willock’s name featured on the teamsheet for the clash at Vicarage Road.

So how did Willock go from missing two games to retaining his place in the starting XI?

Joe Willock’s brave decision vs Watford

“He walked in on Friday and said, ‘I want to give it a go’, so we encouraged him to train, which he did and came through it,” Bruce said.

“And I thought he played very, very well and I wish he could have taken one of his chances today.”

It was a decent performance by the summer signing, but it was clouded by one moment.

Willock’s lapse in concentration at the back post allowed Ismaila Sarr to head home an equaliser and win Watford an unlikely point.

Other than that moment, it was a positive showing from Willock. Despite his injury he looked much more energetic, bursting past the forwards and into the box. On another day he would’ve scored.

Willock was one of multiple Toon players guilty of missing golden chances.

But to play through the pain barrier shows the 22-year-old’s commitment and bravery. Hopefully Willock hasn’t damaged his foot further and he can play a part against Wolves on Saturday.