There were some outstanding Newcastle United performances against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night, but Sandro Tonali was the star of the show.
He won the player of the match award, with Nick Woltemade calling Sandro Tonali ‘quality’ after the Carabao Cup victory.
The 25-year-old was spectacular during Newcastle United’s win over Spurs, and deserves all of the plaudits that are coming his way.
However, Eddie Howe has picked out two other players for their role in the Magpies’ cup victory, one of which is slightly surprising.
Eddie Howe’s unprovoked praise for Joe Willock after Newcastle United beat Spurs
After Newcastle United’s victory against Spurs, Howe spoke to the club’s official website.
He was asked about Nick Woltemade’s goal and performance, with Howe taking the opportunity to praise the way his forward led the press alongside Joe Willock.
“I was pleased that he scored,” he said.
“All strikers need to score regularly, so that will help him. A good performance from Nick.
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“I thought he worked really hard with Joe Willock. They set the tone on our press early in the game. They certainly helped the team.”
It is great to see Willock being singled out for praise by the Newcastle United manager, especially when he was not specifically asked about the midfielder.
Willock was a surprise inclusion in the Magpies’ starting XI, named in the side for the first time since the 0-0 draw with Bournemouth.
The 26-year-old performed well, and will hope his display results in more minutes in the future after a frustrating period.
Joe Willock makes up for lost time with Newcastle United assist
As well as leading the press, Willock and Woltemade combined for Newcastle United’s second goal of the night.
It was Willock’s cross that Woltemade headed home, netting his sixth goal for the club after becoming Newcastle’s most expensive signing ever.
The goal will have boosted the 23-year-old’s confidence further, while it will also have provided a boost for Willock.
That was the £25million man’s first goal contribution since February. He provided an assist for Alexander Isak during the Magpies’ 4-3 win over Nottingham Forest last season, but has been unable to influence proceedings in the final third ever since.