Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock has hailed close friend and fellow academy graduate Eddie Nketiah for making his mark with a goal on his first start for the club since returning from Leeds United.
Nketiah was frustrated with a lack of game time on loan at Elland Road and has impressed in training since returning to north London, with Arteta deciding against sending him out for a second spell on loan this season.
A first start under the Spaniard brought a first goal on Monday, Nketiah converting Bukayo Saka's cross from close range to double Arsenal's lead.
Having made their way through the ranks together, Willock can see a first team future together on the horizon.
"Eddie’s probably one of my closest friends," said Willock. "To play with him on a big stage like this is amazing.
"We’ve been through so many tribulations together and we’ve always tried to keep each other’s heads up. To see him score is like me scoring, I’m so happy for him. I’m buzzing.
"It’s not impossible you know. We’re all thriving, we’ve all got good ability and we’re all hungry to work hard and try to play. I feel like eventually it will happen, hopefully it will."
