Newcastle boss Howe explains Willock, Miley withdrawal decisions

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has explained ending the seasons of Joe Willock and Lewis Miley.

The pair will now focus on preseason.

Howe said of Willock today: "We don't think so [he'll play again]. With Joe, we've decided that a period of rest, or a period strengthening the area around his Achilles, would benefit him more. We went to see a specialist and they said we had a few options. He could continue to play but I think the longer term view was taken.

"No operation [needed]. That's been made clear to him on a couple of occasions. Surgery wouldn't be beneficial to his situation."

On Miley, he stated: "Decision made on him again was for his long-term future. We won't see him again this season. He's done brilliantly but with the back problem he has, rest is the way to go."

Howe also offered an update on knee injury victims Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman.

He added: "Both players have dealt with it well. Sven has had a bit of time in Holland so we haven't seen him in the last week or so. Jamaal has been regularly coming in to the training ground.

"Both players mentally have to understand their situation and look at the long term picture. It's difficult when you see that long stretch where you won't be available. Once you get your head around that, you have a different view on it. Both brilliant lads."