Mikel Arteta has once again embraced the idea of Joe Willock permanently developing as a No.10. for Arsenal.
The 20-year-old has mostly been used as a box-to-box midfielder advancing from the No.8. position since breaking into the first team but Arteta views him differently.
Against Bournemouth in the FA Cup and in the away leg against Olympiacos, however, Arteta played him as a No.10. At the Vitality Stadium, he starred in that role. From there he was able to find pockets of space, burst across the pitch and find his more dangerous teammates in an almost-perfect performance.
This wasn't quite replicated at the Karaiskakis Stadium on February 20 - especially as he was shifted out wide in the second half - but Arteta still believes this will be Willock's role in the future.
"I think so. I think he’s perfect to play in that role. I think he’s got incredible physical attributes but as well he’s a very intelligent boy," he said ahead of the second leg against Olympiacos.
"He learns really quickly, he’s very willing, I think he’s developing really really well and I’m very pleased with him."
Although Willock's stature would lend itself to being more of a box-to-box midfielder, the way he uses his No.10s will give Willock to shine there.
More often than not, the No..10. holds his high position on the pitch as the two players in the double-pivot draw the opposition towards themselves. This then creates the space for the No.10. to receive the ball on the turn, drive forward and supply the ball to the more dangerous forwards - something Willock is more than capable of doing.
As well as what he offers in possession, Willock's efforts out of it shouldn't go unnoticed either. He may come across quite lanky but he has learnt how to use his body well and isn't scared to tackle or join the press which Arteta will take a huge liking to.
It's also important to note that this isn't the first time the 37-year-old has spoken about Willock excelling in that role.
"They were terrific, their work rate. As well, for me it's the courage to play and make big decisions - to not be scared and play safe, that's the difference with these three kids," he said after the FA Cup win at Bournemouth .
"I really like Joe in that position (No.10.) I think he can be an outstanding player playing there and he showed (that) tonight."
