Eddie Howe sends powerful message to Gareth Southgate as Coach tips Joe Willock to earn England call-up

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe believes Joe Willock will be called up to the England squad.

Willock returned to the starting lineup for Newcastle’s 2-1 home win over Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend.

The 23-year-old received praise for his contribution to the narrow victory, as he assisted Miguel Almiron’s 79th-minute winner.

Willock has represented England at youth level, including the Under-21 squad, but has yet to be called up to the senior squad.

Howe stated ahead of Friday’s Premier League away match against Nottingham Forest that he believes Willock is good enough to play for England.

“That should definitely be his goal,” Howe said. “I believe he has the ability to do it.”

“Joe, like every other player on the team, has room for improvement. It is available to him. He is still young and has room to grow.

“He has been excellent and his game has improved since my arrival. I believe he has further to go. He has those moments and chances to score more goals and assist more, especially in the position he is playing in.

“He scored a brilliant goal against Chelsea, and if he can add a few more moments like that to his game, he’ll be knocking on the door.”

Willock’s wait for an international call-up, however, will continue after he was left out of Southgate’s squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against Italy and Ukraine.

This season, the former Arsenal man has made 32 competitive appearances for the Magpies, scoring two goals and providing three assists.

Howe commented on Willock’s ability, saying: “He can get around the pitch brilliantly, and he also doesvetails into a large area for us, with natural rotation into those areas. That versatility in his game is crucial; he is far from a one-dimensional player.”

Willock is expected to start against Forest on Friday, but Howe will be without Joelinton, who is serving the final game of a two-match suspension.