NEWCASTLE star Joe Willock was carried off on a stretcher in worrying scenes during their latest pre-season clash in South Korea.
The former Arsenal man collided with an opponent in a tackle during the closing stages of the 1-0 loss to the K-League XI and went down clutching his ankle.
ReutersJoe Willock suffered a pre-season injury[/caption]
He was carried off in worrying scenes
Willock, 25, was helped off the pitch on a stretcher to add to Eddie Howe’s horror start to the season.
And Newcastle fans watching on were concerned, as one said: “Doesn’t look good at all.”
Another added: “Looked a bad one.”
Howe shared what he knew after the game, saying: “I don’t have a major update yet but it didn’t look great on the pitch.
“But at this moment, it doesn’t look like a major, major injury. And fingers crossed it’s not, because Joe has suffered enough. Hopefully he’s OK.”
Willock signed for Newcastle from the Gunners in 2021 for £25million.
He has since made 143 appearances – scoring 18 goals – and played 41 times last season.
But it remains to be seen how long Willock faces on the sidelines following his injury set back during Newcastle’s Far East tour.
Howe has already been rocked by the news that star striker Alexander Isak wants to leave the club.
The Swede missed the tour – officially due to a thigh problem – but it comes after informing Toon bosses of his desire to walk out.
And Liverpool are believed to be weighing up a British-record transfer bid – with Isak said to be valued at £150m.
RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko remains the most likely player to replace Isak if the forward does get his move away.
Newcastle also missed out on signing James Trafford from Burnley – with the keeper instead heading back to Manchester City.
But Aaron Ramsdale seems to be heading to St James’ Park.
The Magpies saw deals for Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Bryan Mbeumo and Hugo Ekitike hijacked by Premier League rivals.
Although they did bring in winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest for £55m to bolster their attack.
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