Joe Willock is delighted to have joined Newcastle United on loan until the end of the season, noting the club’s ‘massive history’.

LEEDS, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 22: Joe Willock of Arsenal takes the knee ahead of kick off during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on November 22, 2020 in Leeds, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Paul Ellis - Pool/Getty Images)
LEEDS, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 22: Joe Willock of Arsenal takes the knee ahead of kick off during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on November 22, 2020  (Photo by Paul Ellis – Pool/Getty Images)

In what looks like it will be a great move for the 23-year-old midfielder, who had found his playing time diminishing at Arsenal, Joe Willock signed for Newcastle on deadline day, with the move made official not long before the window shut.

Speaking to the official Newcastle website, Willock said, “I’d like to thank all the supporters for their warm welcome and messages so far.

“This is a club with a massive history that I’ve grown up watching and I’ll work my socks off for the team. I can’t wait to see everyone and be part of the Newcastle family.”

Steve Bruce added, “I’m delighted to bring Joe to Newcastle until the end of the season. He is a very exciting and talented young player who can get up and down the pitch and can score a goal from midfield.

“He has made a very decent impact at Arsenal after coming through the ranks and to make nearly 80 appearances for the club by the age of 21 says much about his development, ability and character.

“He is very keen to come here and test himself and he’ll be a great addition to the squad.”

https://twitter.com/NUFC/status/1356401324762529796

Willock has made 78 appearances for the Arsenal first team, scoring 11 and assisting four and I am very much looking forward to seeing him (hopefully) playing regularly with Newcastle, a side my granda supported that I’ve always had a soft spot for.

The Magpies play Crystal Palace on Tuesday evening, after Arsenal’s game against Wolves, but Willock will have to wait until their game against Southampton on Saturday for his debut.