He left Alexander Isak ‘shocked’ in 2023, now Newcastle United need £25m fringe player more than ever

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Newcastle United blew Tottenham Hotspur away two years ago.

As Eddie Howe’s side went in search of Champions League qualification, they made a major statement at the expense of Tottenham Hotspur.

Newcastle United beat Spurs 6-1 at St James’ Park, with the Magpies scoring five goals in the opening 21 minutes.

It was fantasy football from Newcastle, who obliterated Spurs on April 23rd 2023.

Joe Willock’s outrageous Newcastle United assist

The Magpies scored some brilliant goals that day. Joelinton beautifully rounded Hugo Lloris, while Jacob Murphy’s second goal from distance was an absolute rocket.

But the pick of the bunch might be Newcastle’s fourth and Alexander Isak’s first.

It was a fantastic finish from Newcastle’s most expensive signing ever, but it was really all about the assist.

Iask found himself through on goal courtesy of an outrageous pass from Joe Willock. Drifting out to the left channel, Willock put Isak in with a first time pass with the outside of his right foot.

It was absolute perfection from the £25million man.

Following the assist, Bruno Guimaraes christened Willock as ‘Willockinho’, while Isak could not believe what his teammate had pulled off.

“I was shocked, to be fair,” Isak said.

“I wasn’t expecting it. That’s incredible. All praise should be to the assist there.

“Me and Joe, we show that we have a good connection. He finds me often. That was brilliant.”

Newcastle United suddenly need more from Joe Willock

Willock produced a moment of magic in that win against Tottenham. At the time, he was arguably playing the best football of his career. He was a pivotal part of a Newcastle United midfield that helped bring Champions League football back to St James’ Park.

Now Eddie Howe’s side are looking to repeat that feat, but Willock’s influence has waned.

Fitness issues ruined the 2023/24 season for Willock. This time he has been fit for most of the campaign, yet Willock has struggled to be truly influential.

The 25-year-old has made 37 appearances in all competitions, 14 of which have been starts.

In the Premier League, he has just two goal contributions, providing assists in wins over Wolves and Nottingham Forest.

His last start was away to Liverpool on February 26th. Since then, his role has been to provide an impact off the bench.

However, he has been unable to do that. Willock’s cameos have been uninspiring, at a time when Newcastle United are suffering from a lack of depth.

With five games to go, Newcastle United need more from a player who was once so crucial in black and white.