Defender tweets injury update after Newcastle United heartache

The defender ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in January while on loan at Newcastle United.

Willems had surgery on his knee after being sent back to Eintracht Frankfurt, his parent club, and he posted a video on Twitter of him doing strength and conditioning exercises.

“With everything going on in the world, I forgot to share this with you,” said Willems. “Keep fighting for your goals, but also keep counting your blessings and all the little achievements.”

Willems issued a tearful statement after leaving Newcastle – and spoke of his desire to return to the club.

The 23-year-old said: “It was fantastic to play for NUFC. I believe in the plan I made with God and the path we have chosen. I pledge to do everything I can so it will not be my last game for NUFC.”