It’s been a hugely frustrating season for Willock, who, on the back of last year’s injury struggles, had started just seven Premier League games prior to Forest’s visit and was replaced at half-time in the defeat to Manchester City.

But the former Arsenal man enjoyed a timely return to form against Forest, shining in the first half as the Magpies blew their rivals away with four goals in 11 minutes.

Howe admitted the second half was “different” for Willock, but that was the case for every Newcastle player as the hosts struggled.

Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton have established themselves as Howe’s first choice midfield trio this season, but Howe says Willock still has a huge part to play.

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“That was Joe Willock at his best,” said Newcastle’s boss.

“Box to box, creative, flair, sprinting, it was a really strong Joe performance.

“We really need him to come back to his best level. Historically he was a massive player for us and he added a dynamism in our midfield that we need. Again, in the second half it was different for him and the team but in the first half he was excellent.”

As was Lewis Miley, who scored Newcastle’s first goal and starred before the break in what was his first Premier League start of the season.

Howe said: “I thought he was excellent in that first half. I thought he showed all his qualities, his technical ability, his bravery to get on the ball, his tactical understanding. He scored a goal, which is great to see again at the Gallowgate End, great finish. He’s got really big character on the pitch.

“But again, he’s another player that probably suffered with the team in the second half, so there will be a lot to take from that game for Lewie.”