Joe Willock's stats show Newcastle twist could be a blessing in disguise

Joe Willock was impressive for Newcastle against Strasbourg and his latest injury may well end up working in Matthias Jaissle's favour.

Willock has been closely linked with leaving Newcastle since the turn of the year when several Premier League clubs registered an interest in his services.

He stayed at St James' Park for the remainder of last season, but has continued to be linked away this summer, with Jaissle replacing Eddie Howe as Magpies boss.

Turkish giants Besiktas reportedly saw a £10million offer for his services rejected by Newcastle last month, but have been weighing up another bid.

Willock's injury against Strasbourg on Sunday now means he is much more likely to stay at the club past the end of the summer window.

His performance against the Ligue 1 club proved that he can still have an impact under Jaissle and may well have a key role to play this season.

Joe Willock proved his worth against Strasbourg before injury blow

Willock is one of Newcastle's longest-serving players as it stands, having initially joined the club on loan from Arsenal in February 2021.

Injury issues and other players being picked ahead of him have restricted his minutes over the years, but he still made 39 appearances across all competitions last season under Howe.

Despite rumours of Besiktas' genuine interest in completing a deal, Jaissle named him in the Magpies' starting eleven for their last pre-season friendly against Strasbourg on Sunday.

He was deployed as a number 10 against the Ligue 1 side, and emerged with better stats than their other midfielders before picking up a groin injury in the 87th minute.

Willock had 88 per cent pass accuracy, created one chance and had two shots on target, while he made six recoveries, won four of five attempted ground duels and was fouled once.

Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Willock's injury means he is more likely to stay at Newcastle beyond the summer window, even though they had been planning to cash in on his services with less than a year left on his deal.

The 26-year-old proved to Jaissle that he has what it takes to be an important part of his squad this season against Strasbourg, though, so his new blow may well turn out to work in the Magpies' favour.

How are Newcastle's midfield transfer plans holding up?

Willock's valuable experience and quality should stand him in decent stead to be a regular under Jaissle, especially given the current state of their midfield.

Lewis Miley and Jacob Ramsey look set to be regulars, but he is a better option than unproven new signings Aladji Bamba and Sean Steur, while Joelinton is injured and pushing to leave.

Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Brighton are open to offers for Carlos Baleba as Newcastle plot a potential move for his services.

Lucas Bergvall and Joao Palhinha are also believed to be on their radar as it stands, but the Magpies need to accelerate several deals in the coming weeks.