Five tackles, two key passes: Arsenal loanee Joe Willock a standout on Newcastle debut

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Judging by the events of his debut, Joe Willock moving to Newcastle United on deadline day was a masterstroke as he looks to prove a point to Mikel Arteta back at Arsenal.

The 21-year-old was thrown straight into the starting lineup on Saturday as the Magpies hosted Southampton.

The game would prove to be chaotic. Newcastle edged a five-goal thriller against a side that were looking to bounce back from a 9-0 defeat.

Steve Bruce’s side had to see out the final 23 minutes with only nine men on the pitch. Jeff Hendrick was sent off just after the break. And Fabian Schar came off injured after the Magpies had made all three substitutions.

Nevertheless, the home side secured the three points. And Willock – who scored the opening goal – played an integral role in seeing Newcastle across the line – as his statistics prove.

He made two key passes during the contest, according to Whoscored.com. Allan Saint-Maximin was the only other Newcastle player to manage any.

Willock’s tally of key passes is all the more remarkable given that he attempted just 11 passes in total throughout the entire game.

Instead, it was the defensive side of his game that came to the fore after his goal. He won five tackles. No one else managed more than three.

He came joint top amongst the Newcastle players for interceptions. And he also made two clearances.

Of course, Saturday’s display will mean little for Willock’s Arsenal hopes if he does not build on it during the remaining months of the season.

But there is no question that the youngster is off to an amazing start.