Paul Merson told Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports that Arsenal loanee, Joe Willock, has ‘repaid his loan’ deal after his winner for Newcastle yesterday.
The Arsenal academy product came off the bench to channel his inner Frank Lampard once again and score yet another late goal for relegation-threatened Newcastle.
After Willock rescued a point for Steve Bruce’s men against Tottenham a fortnight ago, this time he scored the winning goal against Champions League-chasing, West Ham.
And Merson was full of praise for the Arsenal man and the impact he has had at St James’ Park.
“I didn’t realise but Tim (Sherwood) told me he’s quite a tall lad,” said Merson. “It’s a good header. A real good header.
“That’s what he was brought into the club to do. To get in the box late. He scored a massive goal not long ago off the bar (Against Spurs).
“And he’s just scored a massive goal again for Newcastle. He’s repaid his loan deal with no problem with them two goals.”
Whilst Arsenal have had their troubles this season, one thing that has constantly been shining bright has been their academy stars.
From Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe bossing proceedings in North London to Willock working his magic in the North East.
It all bodes well for Arsenal’s future, whose fans will be hoping this talent is backed up by the under-performing senior players and those in charge of transfer proceedings for when the window re-opens.
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