John Barnes has a clear view on Joe Willock's future as Newcastle United wait on Arsenal decision

Willock starred on loan at Newcastle United in the second half of last season.

The midfielder scored eight goals as the club pulled away from the relegation zone, and seven of them came in his final seven Premier League appearances.

The 21-year-old is a loan target for Newcastle this summer, but Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has hinted at a role for Willock at the Emirates Stadium next season.

Barnes, for his part, believes that Willock will stay at Arsenal.

“I watched him a couple of times for Arsenal before he went to Newcastle, and every time he started or came off the bench, he’s done well, and I’ve always liked him – and they like him a lot,” the former Newcastle and England midfielder told bettingodds.com.

“He needed the experience, and he wanted to play, so it was a great move for both himself and Newcastle by heading there on loan, but next year I think he’ll feature more heavily at Arsenal.

“Unless he had such a good time at Newcastle that he wants to stay there permanently rather than stay at Arsenal, but I still think he can give it a go at Arsenal, because Arteta’s playing youth.

“You have Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka, for example, and Willock will be given time and support in that team, so even though things went really well for him at Newcastle, I do believe that he will stay at Arsenal.”

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