Joe Willock impressed in Newcastle United’s 1-1 draw against Aston Villa on Friday night, as he continues to get regular starts on loan.

Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock, on loan from Arsenal, during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Aston Villa at St. James' Park, Newcastle, England on 12 March 2021. Copyright: Simon Davies
Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock, on loan from Arsenal, during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Aston Villa at St. James’ Park, Newcastle, England on 12 March 2021. Copyright: Simon Davies

Joe Willock caught the eye for Newcastle United on Friday, starting against Aston Villa. It was the 21-year-old’s sixth consecutive start on loan, at home to tough opposition who are chasing a European qualification spot.

The midfielder put in a strong performance to help Newcastle get up the pitch on a number of occasions. Completing four of his five attempted dribbles, he was difficult to contain – as he always is at his best.

Willock also won the ball back well, making two interceptions and two tackles, and he completed three of his four attempted crosses and long balls to keep things going in possession.

The main thing is that the Arsenal loanee looked a lot more confident and comfortable, with the freedom to play a role he’s good at.

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This is exactly what the loan was for. If he can keep these performances up then he’ll likely draw plenty of interest in the summer, assuming Arsenal don’t decide to bring him back for next season.

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