Did Joe Willock play his way into Arsenal’s starting XI against Rangers?

Joe Willock

Did Joe Willock play his way into Arsenal’s starting XI against Rangers?

By Josh Graham

Arsenal fans got a glimpse of Joe Willock back in the famous red shirt last week after his loan spell at Newcastle United.

The 21-year-old was a second-half substitute in the 2-2 pre-season friendly draw against Rangers, but did he show enough to force his way into Mikel Arteta’s starting XI?

Yes - Willock is ready to be an Arsenal regular


You couldn’t help but be impressed with Willock’s impact at Steve Bruce’s Newcastle last term.

The youngster went on a remarkable scoring spree by netting in seven consecutive Premier League games for the Magpies, only the second person to do so after Toon legend Alan Shearer.

And he appears to have not lost any of his sparkling form, as fans and onlookers remarked on his impressive substitute appearance against Steven Gerrard’s men.

Arsenal had to twice come from behind to avoid defeat and Willock did well in a slightly different role.

The Englishman played in a deeper midfield position but looked composed on the ball and throughout his cameo showed why many Gunners fans are desperate for him to be fast tracked into Mikel Arteta’s first choice line-up.

With Dani Ceballos and Martin Odegaard back at Real Madrid and Granit Xhaka, Lucas Torreira and 
Matteo Guendouzi all said to be heading for the exit, surely it is about time Willock was given a prolonged shot in the middle of the park.

He proved he could succeed in what was a struggling Newcastle side in a completely new environment, so why not chuck him in alongside Thomas Partey and Emile Smith Rowe.

No - Willock didn’t show he will nail down starting spot


On the other hand, Willock was solid without ever being exceptional against Rangers.

With Arteta still looking for a first summer win, Willock showed some nice touches, but it would be a stretch to label it a sensational display that will have had his Spanish boss pencilling him into his team.

Reports suggest both Willock and Arsenal may be keen on a further loan move and there’s no doubt that those on Tyneside want him back.

On Friday, boss Bruce told Sky Sports News: “You have to ask Arsenal, it's their decision and it's the player's decision.

“Of course we want him back, he did great with us and gives us another dimension in midfield that we haven't got.

“We'll keep bashing away at it."

Conclusion


The bigger question appears to be whether Willock will still be at the Emirates come August 13 and the start of the Premier League season rather than if he will make Arteta’s side.

There is no harm in him seeking more game time away from the club but if he remains in North London, Arsenal should remember the delay it took to introduce players such as Smith Rowe who spent months sitting on the bench before lighting up the league and earning the No.10 shirt.

Image Credit: Getty Images

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