Mikel Arteta comments on Joe Willock after midfielder is left out against Spurs

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has responded to a question about Joe Willock, after the midfielder was mysteriously absent for the Gunners today.

The north London outfit played against their bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur, with the game finishing 1-0 to Spurs.

Eyebrows were raised ahead of kick-off when news of Arsenal’s team filtered through.

It was a fairly strong side featuring the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Nicolas Pepe and new £50 million signing Ben White.

But Willock was strangely nowhere to be seen.

It is no secret that Newcastle want to sign him again, following his hugely successful loan spell with the club in 2020/21.

Getting him back has proven very difficult so far this summer.

Speaking about why he wasn’t involved today, Arteta said (via Chris Wheatley): “When I can say more I will let you know.”

Perhaps that indicates the player is in talks to depart the Emirates Stadium.

Something in the offing?

Arteta’s comments may well suggest that something is happening.

He would surely have been involved today if there wasn’t anything close.

Here’s hoping today’s development does indeed point towards an impending return to Newcastle and that announcement arrives soon with the new season now right around the corner.