'Why was it a surprise?' – Steve Bruce explains Joe Willock's start for Newcastle United at Aston Villa

The 22-year-old played just 48-minutes in pre-season for Arsenal before signing for the Magpies last week. He was signed too late to feature in the opening day defeat against West Ham United but was thrust straight into the starting line-up for the trip to Villa Park as The Magpies suffered a 2-0 defeat.

Willock hadn’t played since August 1 so there was a degree of surprise to see him named in the side so soon.

But Bruce felt his decision to start his new £25-million signing was justified.

“Why was it a surprise?” The Magpies boss responded. “When is he going to play minutes?

"He's a fit lad who has trained all summer, he hasn't played nearly enough minutes but I never thought I was at risk with him because of the fitness levels Joe has got.”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription; sign up here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor