Joe Willock's Newcastle United frustration spotted as Eddie Howe sets the record straight

Newcastle United’s seven-game run of fielding the same starting XI came to an end before the 3-0 win over Ipswich Town as Eddie Howe was forced into a midfield change on his return to the dugout. Joelinton’s knee problem - which requires him seeing a specialist - closed one door for the Brazilian, while opening another for Joe Willock.

The former Arsenal man has not started for the Magpies in the Premier League since February 26th and has been restricted to cameo appearances from the bench - totalling 77 minutes - since then. This was, therefore, a big opportunity for Willock to stake his claim from the outset.

In Harvey Barnes, the 25-year-old has seen, firsthand, a perfect example of how to grasp the rare chances afforded to you in this team. There is scope to break in from the shadows. It is not impossible that Willock returns to this side on a regular basis.

Yet the left-sided star hasn't exactly taken the first of those chances to shine. There was visible frustration on Willock's face as he tried and tried to make things happen for the black and whites before his withdrawal in the 67th-minute.

He was involved in action from the early stages, angrily pushing Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy away after the midfielder fouled him in the opening minutes. An off the ball incident between the pair was later checked by VAR, with Morsy accused of ragging Willock to the ground midway through the opening period.

This only added to the anger, which was again on show as Jacob Murphy failed to pass him the ball in the second-half. It was not through a lack of will that Willock struggled but a reminder, perhaps, that he needs game time, regularly, to get back to his best.

Howe believes this may be the case and was keen to remind any doubters of the midfielder's qualities when asked about his selection decision moments after the win.

"It was a tough decision but I think Joelinton has played on the left for us," the Newcastle United head coach said. "Joe Willock is a natural player that wants to play on the left, although he's right footed, very similar to Joelinton.

"So we tried to keep the rhythm of the team rather than bring someone who maybe prefers to play on the right like Lewis. So that was behind my thinking.

"Joe's an outstanding player, in his own right, he's done some really good things for us this season. I think he'll benefit from the game today. He's got a big part to play in our last four games."