Arsenal starlet Joe Willock should treat cup tie as audition for January loan

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Arsenal youngster Joe Willock was one of the standout performers in last Thursday’s win over Vorskla Poltava.

Willock produced an impressive performance against Vorskla, demonstrating his ability to play as a box-to-box central midfielder.

And he capped his eye-catching display with a well-taken finish – his first senior goal.

Willock is one of the best young player in the Arsenal academy but a January loan move could help him take his career to the next level.

After getting a taste of senior action for just the 12th time in his career, the 19-year-old could develop his game with more first-team playing time.

Arsenal’s under-21 side take on Portsmouth at Fratton Park in the EFL Trophy tonight and this is a great chance for Willock to audition for a loan move.

Whether he drops to the Championship or League One, the teenager would benefit from the physicality of the Football League.

Against Pompey, Willock faces a tough test against a high-flying League One side.

If the England under-20 international can impress against Portsmouth’s talented midfield, then he will surely be a wanted man in the January transfer window.

There will be a temptation to stay at Arsenal, in a familiar environment where he plays youth team football and the occasional first-team cup match.

But it would be good for the youngster to step out of his comfort zone and improve his game out on loan.