Newcastle United are getting closer and closer to welcoming back a key player to first-team action.
Joe Willock has not played for the Magpies since the end of last season. His last appearance came in May during a 4-1 win over Brighton.
The 24-year-old was forced off with an injury that night, and has been plagued by problems ever since.
Since that problem, Willock has picked up an Achilles issue which delayed his return. But now it looks like the midfielder is closing in on full fitness.
Eddie Howe stated last week that Willock had returned to training, and now the former Arsenal man has been spotted with the rest of his teammates as they prepare for Wednesday night’s Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund.
However, that game looks like it will come too early for Willock according to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie.
Joe Willock trains with Newcastle ahead of Borussia Dortmund
Downie has spoke to Sky Sports News from Newcastle’s training ground and provided an injury update on the Toon squad ahead of the Borussia Dortmund game.
He watched Eddie Howe’s players in training on Tuesday, where Willock was involved. However, Downie was quick to remind fans that he likely will not feature in the Champions League fixture.
“Over there is Joe Willock, who has been missing since the start of this season,” he said.
“He picked up a knee injury, then an Achilles injury. But the good news for Newcastle United supporters is that Joe Willock is back out training with his teammates – full training ahead of this match against Borussia Dortmund.
“I think the match will come too early for him, but they’ll be pleased to see him back given the situation with Sandro Tonali.”
Newcastle must be careful after lengthy injury
Given how long he has been out of action for, Newcastle will be very patient when it comes to integrating Willock back into the side. They will not give him his first minutes of the season unless they are sure he is absolutely ready.
But it is excellent to see Willock back in full training, as he was a key player last season and has been a big miss ever since his injury. He has the quality to make this exciting Newcastle team even better, which is why so many people are delighted by the news that he is closer than ever to a return.
The timing is good too, given that Sandro Tonali is due to be banned for betting after an investigation by the Italian Football Federation.
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