Arsenal are in action tonight in the first of their pre-season friendlies – but there is no sign of Newcastle United transfer target Joe Willock.
The Gunners face Scottish side Hibernian and are looking to get some early minutes into their players.
But it looks as though Willock will not be involved tonight, despite being tipped to.
The Northern Echo had reported earlier today that Willock has impressed Mikel Arteta with his approach and attitude since returning to pre-season.
It is explained in that report that the Spaniard will turn to Willock for the majority of their pre-season games.
Willock has been training, so to see him absent tonight is a little odd.
At the moment there is no information provided about Willock’s mysterious absence.
The news will no doubt be of interest to Newcastle supporters.
Many want to see him return to St. James’ Park following his absolutely brilliant loan spell last season.
He ended up scoring eight goals in 14 appearances.
There may well be a perfectly good reason for Willock’s absence tonight, but speculation is bound to pick up until a reason is provided.
That said in the last minutes, The Times have reported Newcastle are now in talks about a second loan deal for Willock, so perhaps there actually is something to his absence.
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