When Joe Willock appeared in the Carabao Cup Round of 16 yesterday, few people had much expectations from him. Playing alongside experienced players such as Xhaka and Bepe, he and other young players like Nketiah and Saka gave their best in the game.
Willock does not get involved in many goals, but he’s definitely influential in every game he plays. In 2019, he appeared in 29 premier league games and scored 1 goal and made one assist.
At 21, people would expect him to do more. Other players would easily be carried away in a big match, such as yesterday’s game against Liverpool.
But Willock has always appeared to me as a person who knows what he wants and goes for it. He does not get distracted by failures on his way to success.
He confirmed this when he was called upon to take up a decisive penalty after his more experienced colleague, M. Elneny, had missed his penalty take.
I watched him calmly and strongly take the shot past Adrian (GK), sending his team to the quarter finals against a formidable team.
In a nutshell, it is every young player’s dream to play at such a big stage. While others get the chance, others rarely do. Some of those who do squander it, while others take it with much dedication and commitment.
It does not matter whether you become the star of the group, but if you give your best in everything you do, you will always reap the payoff.
I jealously watched as Willock’s friends ran to him, hugged him, and made wild celebrations with him at the center. Young and old players, the coach, and the entire squad happily gave him what he deserves – recognition and appreciation.
Do not ever doubt yourself. At any position you find yourself, do your best, regardless of your age or past failures.
Someone will appreciate what you do; more importantly, you’ll be happy with yourself.
