Steve Bruce gives his verdict on Newcastle United's transfer business – and Joe Willock

The relegation-threatened club signed midfielder Joe Willock on loan from Arsenal before Monday night’s transfer deadline. However, Bruce had hoped to sign another midfielder – Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury was another target – but other hoped-for deals “fell away”, according to United’s head coach.

Defender DeAndre Yedlin was the only deadline day departure. The 27-year-old joined Galatasaray on a free transfer ahead of the summer expiry of his contract at St James’s Park.

Reflecting on the club’s transfer business, Bruce said: “We always want more, but one or two unfortunately fell away, which we were disappointed about.”

Willock was in the stand for last night’s 2-1 home defeat to Crystal Palace, and the 21-year-old was due to train with his new team-mates for the first time today.

"We were delighted to get Joe,” said Bruce. “It’s something which I’m sure will benefit everybody. He’s something different to what we’e got. Lets hope he can come and perform and give us a spark."

Willock could make his Newcastle debut in Saturday’s home game against Southampton.

“He brings a certain energy, and he’s got a goal from midfield,” said Bruce. “He’s obviously a talent. He brings hopefully that bit of quality. He’s in the stands tonight, so he’ll start training tomorrow and will be in contention for Saturday.”

The club is 16th in the Premier League table, and eight points above the relegation zone, ahead of the Southampton game. Third-bottom Fulham have two games in hand over United.

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