Joe Willock has explained to NUFC TV why he finds it ‘harder’ to influence games at the top of the pitch since Eddie Howe replaced Steve Bruce as Newcastle United’s head coach.
The Toon fired Bruce last month, 13-days after the Saudi-led takeover at St James’ Park. He left with the club 19th in the Premier League table and without a win after eight games.
Bruce had adamantly targeted a permanent transfer for Willock this summer after the 22-year-old produced a strong loan spell. He scored eight goals the Magpies’ final eight games of the season to help guide the Tyneside outfit to safety, before completing a £25m switch.
Bruce was relentless in speaking with Arsenal in the hope of Willock joining Newcastle in a permanent transfer. But the midfielder has struggled to replicate the form shown last term.
Willock is yet to score or provide a single assist in 15 Premier League appearances, starting 12. Howe also only fielded him for the final three-minutes in Thursday’s loss at Liverpool.
Willock explains why he finds it ‘harder’ in Howe’s Newcastle than Bruce’s
Newcastle’s defeat to Liverpool was their first match with Howe in the dugout that Willock did not start. He had also played the full 90-minutes in three of his prior four appearances.
Willock admits his new role in Howe’s Newcastle compared to Bruce’s has made it harder for him to influence games in the same way he did toward the end of last season.
But the former England U21 international notes Howe has done a great job of explaining what he wants from Willock.
“To be honest, I’m playing a bit deeper than I would have last year,” Willock said. “I’m playing as one of two holders. It’s a bit harder for me to get further ahead, I have a lot more defensive duties.
“That’s something the manager has put to me, and he’s explained to me why he’s playing me there and it’s really good, to be honest.
“I really trust the manager. So, I’m just trying to do my job, work every day and learn. Hopefully, when one goes in, many will follow.”
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