Joe Willock delivers message to Bukayo Saka after World Cup heroics with England

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Joe Willock has told Bukayo Saka to ‘keep shining’ after excelling in England’s World Cup opener against Iran.

The Arsenal winger scored twice in the Three Lions’ 6-2 win, on what was his first appearance on football’s grandest stage.

The nation are raving about Saka’s performance for England. He was one of two young stars to shine in Qatar, alongside Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham.

But it is Saka who has received praise from Newcastle star Willock, after the pair played together at Arsenal.

Willock will have had his eyes on Toon teammates Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson, but it was his former Gunners comrade who was heralded at the full time whistle.

Willock’s message to Saka

After the game, Saka posted a picture of him celebrating one of his goals on his official Instagram account.

He received multiple replies of praise from the likes of Ben Chilwell, Arsenal teammates Albert Sambi Lakonga and Marquinhos, and YouTube star KSI. And there was also a message from Willock.

The 23-year-old wrote: “When God says yes no man can say No. keep shining bro.”

Argument that Willock should be at the World Cup too

While Saka is shining at the World Cup for England, his former teammate Willock is enjoying some time off as the Premier League endures a hiatus.

The Newcastle midfielder ended the first half of the season in sensational fashion. Willock scored twice in his last two games, finding the net against Southampton and Chelsea. His goal against the Blues was particularly special, and proved to be the winner.

In fact, Willock has been in such good form this season that it is curious why he was never in the conversation for the England squad. He has been excellent for Eddie Howe’s side, and played an important role in the Magpies’ surge up the Premier League table.

However, at no point was there any speculation that he could be included in Southgate’s 26-man squad. Instead, Conor Gallagher was called up. And he did nothing to justify his selection in the game against Newcastle less than a fortnight ago.

Willock will continue to watch the World Cup at home, cheering on his Newcastle teammates and former friend Saka. But he will be desperate for domestic football return so he can pick up where he left off in a black and white shirt.