Newcastle’s Eddie Howe condemns racist abuse aimed at Joe Willock
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has condemned the “horrible” racist abuse directed at midfielder Joe Willock following the team’s victory over Crystal Palace last Sunday, reports BritPanorama.
The club has reported the incident to police after the 26-year-old was subjected to online attacks deemed “deeply disturbing.”
Head coach Howe stated: “It’s absolutely horrible. I really felt for Joe, to have to read that and absorb the words that were sent to him. Just his reaction, again, I thought was first-class.” He highlighted the appalling nature of such abuse, noting, “It’s a shame that any football player or any sportsman or any individual has to read those words, and I can’t support him enough and give him love at this moment.”
The abuse also involved threats of violence towards Willock and his family. In response to the messages, Willock shared the horrific content on his Instagram account, stating, “I pray you and your family find God. And may him have mercy on you.” This is not the first instance of social media harassment for Willock, who faced similar abuse in February 2024.
In addition to addressing the abuse, Howe distanced himself from speculation regarding the Manchester United managerial vacancy. Recently linked to the role by pundits including Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, he emphasised his “100 per cent” commitment to Newcastle, stating, “Yes, absolutely. Nothing has changed from my perspective.”
Howe clarified that he is focusing on preparing the team for upcoming matches, disregarding external narratives. “It’s about today’s work and trying to prepare the team as well as we can for Leeds,” he said. He has been with Newcastle for five seasons and signed a long-term contract extension in 2022.
Concluding his comments on staying with the club, Howe remarked: “I’m very happy. The most important thing for me is happiness in the role, happiness in the job, the relationships I have with the people around me.” His insights serve as a reminder of the personal commitment managers have amid the turbulent world of football and the broader implications of hate directed at players.
