Willock was shocked to be dropped
NEWCASTLE United hero Joe Willock was “dismayed” at being dropped but ended up emerging as the saviour by smashing in a dramatic equaliser.
Willock pounced with just five minutes left as United fought back from 2-1 down.
Speaking after the 2-2 draw at St James’ Park, the midfielder said: “I was dismayed to be on the bench, I wanted to make an impact as soon as I come on.
“I am happy I could do that. I thought the boys really played well today.
“To play against such a top team and play like that will give us massive belief going forward.”
Reflecting on the inquest at the training ground after the 3-0 defeat at Brighton, Willock added: “It was a long two weeks.
“A lot of people were doubting us and really getting on to us but that can eradicate a few of the doubters.
“Collectively, as a team, we were really fighting.
“Every day in training we are pushing each other to continue getting points.
“I feel like we can do it – we have the ability in the squad and the willingness to do it and we all believe in the manager to give us the right tactics to go out there and do it.”
■■SPURS boss Jose Mourinho cut a frustrated figure after seeing his side thrown away two points.
He said: “We needed to win the match and we came to win.
“We were not far from winning it but at the same time we created instability with so many individual defensive mistakes.
“We always gave Newcastle a chance to be in the game.
“We had the biggest chance of the game to make it 3-1 and kill it – then we concede a goal the next minute. I am frustrated.”