EastEnders will provide a devastating update on Joel Marshall next week, following his attack on his step-mum Vicki Fowler. The teenager was recently arrested for violently assaulting and hospitalising Vicki, after being reported to the police by his dad Ross.

But while Ross forced Joel to face the consequences of his actions, he also tried to support his son – making himself a pariah on the Square and destroying his relationship with a traumatised Vicki.

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As Joel tries to avoid accountability next week, will Ross continue to stand by him?

In upcoming episodes, Vicki reels when she discovers her step-son has decided to plead not guilty as his hearing. She confronts Ross, who assures her he will try to change Joel’s mind.

At the Vic, the pair end up on the same team for Alfie’s quiz night, which leads them to eventually make peace.

Later, Ross visits Joel in prison to convince him to plead guilty, in a bid to spare Vicki the torment of testifying in court. Having recently thawed their icy relationship, Ross feels hopeful that he and Vicki can rebuild their life together.

Unfortunately for Ross, his big romantic gesture falls flat with Vicki, who is reluctant to reminiscence on their good times in the midst of Joel’s recent drama.

Meanwhile, at home, Vicki opens up to Zack Hudson about the trauma she’s been internalising since the attack. As Zack comforts her, the pair grow closer and share a surprising kiss.

Was Vicki simply feeling vulnerable and in need of support, or could a new romance be on the cards?