Joe Willock became only the second player in Newcastle United’s illustrious history to score seven Premier League goals in seven Premier League games. The first to do it was Newcastle legend, Alan Shearer.

Joe Willock’s 11th goal of the season, and seventh in seven, went down a lot sweeter this weekend after Mikel Arteta confirmed that the midfielder would be an Arsenal player next season.

After all, you’d have to be mad to sell a 21-year-old player who has scored more than twice as many goals as your whole midfield combined.

Willock netted after only 23 minutes in the Magpies final game of the season, away to Fulham. They won the game 2-0 to finish on 45 points in 12th place.

And what a goal it was…

https://twitter.com/afcpadraig/status/1396489796768391172

While Scott Parker’s doomed side might not be the sternest of opposition, Willock has also helped his loan side with goals against Manchester City, Tottenham and Liverpool, popping up to score winners and equalisers to move them up the table, adding a few extra million in prize money to Newcastle’s coffers.

Steve Bruce would love to keep hold of Willock and will do what he can to ‘test Arsenal’s resolve.’ It’s not hard to understand why.

Let’s hope Mikel Arteta’s word is true. Speaking before the match against Brighton, Arteta said, “I think it was great for him to go away and have a different experience, he has grabbed that opportunity in a really positive and remarkable way and he will come back to us, we will have a conversation with him and plan the next years for him.

“For sure [he will come back in the summer] because he’s got a contract and that’s going to be here. That’s for sure.”

Newcastle have made Willock feel special and he has rewarded that faith with an amazing few months.

Arsenal need to do the same, now.