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Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce expressed his delight after completing the signing of Arsenal’s Joe Willock on loan for the rest of the season.

Newcastle strengthened their squad on deadline day by bringing the 21-year-old to St James’ Park on a short-term loan deal.

The central midfielder is a product of the Arsenal academy and did make 17 senior appearances in the first half of the season for them, but has been allowed to leave temporarily in search of more league minutes.

He had very limited action at the Emirates Stadium in the league this campaign, but managed three goals and three assists in just five Europa League group stages matches.

The Englishman is a talented box-to-box midfielder that joins the Toon with huge potential.

Newcastle boss Bruce praised the quality of the Arsenal youngster after signing him on loan.

“I’m delighted to bring Joe to Newcastle until the end of the season. He is a very exciting and talented young player who can get up and down the pitch and can score a goal from midfield, Bruce said, as quoted by the club’s official website.

“He has made a very decent impact at Arsenal after coming through the ranks and to make nearly 80 appearances for the club by the age of 21 says much about his development, ability and character.

“He is very keen to come here and test himself and he’ll be a great addition to the squad.”

TBRs View:

Willock’s loan to Newcastle looks like a great deal for all parties.

For Arsenal, they will be allowing a highly-rated youngster to continue his development with regular Premier League minutes and it’ll be far better than being sat on the bench.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have been crying out for some extra creativity in the centre of the park and it’ll be no surprise to see the Arsenal talent slot into their XI.

Arsenal can certainly be encouraged by the comments from Bruce.