Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of Joe Willock – but the deal was not completed in time for him to face West Ham.
Joe Willock said: I’m buzzing to be here. I loved my time here last season and I’m really happy to be back and to be a Newcastle United player. Leaving Arsenal is obviously a big step, and I’d like to thank everyone involved with the club for all their support over the years, but this is the right move to the right club at the right time for me. I only got one chance to play in front of a smaller number of Newcastle fans as a home player last season, so I can’t wait to step out in front of a packed St. James’ Park and experience that atmosphere. Come on, you Maggies!”
Willock arrived on Tyneside last night but the formalities of the incoming deal meant he was not registered in time for the 12pm deadline with the Premier League. Steve Bruce was hoping to sign Willock in time to be on the bench for the clash with West Ham. But he may now make his first appearances as a Newcastle player on a permanent basis against Aston Villa next weekend.