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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Ben Husband

Alexandre Lacazette sends Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta clear message over Joe Willock

Joe Willock’s spell at Newcastle United has been one of the biggest positives for Arsenal in what was a disappointing end to the season.

Mikel Arteta allowed the academy graduate to join the Magpies in January, with his opportunities at the Emirates limited.

After initially being used as a substitute by Steve Bruce, the 21-year-old went on to make a huge impact St James' Park, netting in seven consecutive Premier League matches to end the campaign.

He is the youngest player to achieve that feat and joins Alan Shearer as the only Toon player to score in that many games on the spin.

Joe Willock ended his spell at Newcastle in record-breaking form (PA)

There has been some debate over whether Arteta will bring Willock back to the Gunners next season, or allow him out on loan again.

Arteta has hinted he will be given a chance in north London, with talks planned about his role next season.

The Spaniard said: "I am really happy things have gone so well for him because of the potential Joe has. It was great for him to go away and have a different experience.

Mikel Arteta has hinted that Willock will have a key role to play next summer (Getty Images)

"He has grabbed that opportunity in a really positive and remarkable way, and he will be back with us.

“We will have those conversations with him and plan the next few years with him."

Steve Bruce has claimed Newcastle will look to test his parent club’s resolve with a transfer bid, but there appears to be a clear feeling within the Arsenal dressing room that he should return.

Responding to an Instagram post from Willock, which read: “7 in 7 and 3 points.. @nufc we signing off in style. Newcastle fans thanks for rocking with me always”, Alexandre Lacazette replied, “What a player”.

The player himself remains coy on his future, when asked about his own plans this summer and whether he could return to Newcastle, he said: "We’ll see what the future holds.

"I’m blessed to have had the opportunity to play for this wonderful club and I’m happy it’s gone so well."

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