Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has hinted to BT Sport, during their Europa League coverage, that Joe Willock is pushing for a Premier League start now.
Willock made the most appearances for Arsenal of any player last season, but he has been constantly overlooked this term.
The youngster is still yet to be given a chance to feature in the league.
However, his last two outings in the Europa League have really shown his quality.
Willock has scored against Dundalk and Molde in the past eight days, with his performances also catching the eye.
And Arteta has suggested that if Willock keeps performing to his current level, then he will get a chance to feature for Arsenal in the Premier League again very soon.
“I really like the approach that the younger players are having for each game, they want to make the difference, they are playing with a lot of personality,” Arteta said.
“Joe Willock could have scored more, he created a goal and a good performance.
“Keep doing what he is doing consistently and his chance will arrive (in the Premier League).”
Whether Willock will now be included in Arsenal’s squad against Aston Villa on Sunday remains to be seen.
Willock was left out of the Gunners’ squad entirely at Old Trafford, even after his man of the match display against Dundalk.
But it would be very harsh if Arteta was to omit the 21-year-old again, after his excellent showing yesterday.
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