Joe Willock is proving to be an inspired signing by Newcastle United from Arsenal.
He had been the super sub in recent weeks, coming off the bench three times to score three vital goals.
But he returned to the starting XI against Leicester, having dropped out after the defeat to Brighton.
And Willock proved that he deserves to be in the team from minute one.
The on-loan midfielder got the ball rolling in the first half, capitalising on a mistake from Caglar Soyuncu.
It was Willock’s fifth goal of the season, making him already the club’s second top scorer in the league.
But it wasn’t just about his goal. Willock was tremendous all evening. He was energetic off the ball and positive in possession.
It was a fantastic performance from the youngster, on a night where so many Newcastle players impressed.
Will Willock return to Newcastle?
Willock is set to return to Arsenal in the summer, although Newcastle are reportedly keen to sign him permanently.
According to the Telegraph, Arsenal want a fee in the region of £20million.
During another impressive performance from Willock, Match Of The Day’s official Twitter account asked: ‘Does Joe Willock start for Arsenal next season?’
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer was far from subtle in his response, replying: ‘Hopeully not no!!’
A lot of Toon fans will be praying Shearer is right.
Whether it’s on loan or permanent, we need to re-sign Willock this summer.
Despite only joining in January, he is already a key player at the club.
He proved against Leicester that he can thrive in this system. He isn’t just an impact sub.
Hopefully he’s starting in black and white next season, rather than red.
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