Joe Willock positive about Newcastle’s Premier League survival

won their crucial battle against the

with a 3-2 result on Saturday. The Magpies climbed their way up to 15th place on the Premier League table with this victory as they sit nine points clear of the relegation zone.

was not included in his side’s line-up against West Ham but scored a decisive goal in the 82nd minute that won the game for

Steve Bruce

’s team.

He told

:

“It’s massive, nine points – and I saw the teams’ fixtures below us and they are not easy fixtures they’re going into, so hopefully it breeds even more confidence in the lads.

“Hopefully we can continue like this and be safe.

“We knew we needed to get nine points ahead of the pack and to do that, we had to get a win, so I’m happy that I could help the team again.”

The Magpies boss Steve Bruce praised Willock for his performance against West Ham.

“He’s a hell of a player, a great lad. We’d love to keep him here, that’s for sure.

“He’s the type of player that you’d love to build your club around. Whether that’s possible, I’m not so sure, but he’s had a big impact and to get a third goal is great for him.”

Newcastle will play against

in their next Premier League match on April 24.

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for the

.