Arsenal legend Martin Keown described Joe Willock’s performance against Eintracht Frankfurt as a “breakthrough moment”.
Martin Keown singled out Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock for praise during the 3 -0Europa League***************
Willock started the first three Premier League games of the season but was dropped to the bench for the last two.
The 20 – year-old burst onto the scene in the Europa League last term under Unai Emery and has started this season with a bang.
He scored the opener against Frankfurt in a youthful Arsenal side that also included academy graduates Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe.
I think this is a breakthrough moment for Willock
Martin Keown on Arsenal ace Joe Willock
But it was Willock who stood out the most for Keown in the first half.
“I think this is the exuberance of young players, ”the former defender said on BT Sport.
“ I think this is a breakthrough moment for Willock.
“He’s been a bit rushed, lacks a little bit of composure, but I love his energy and he gets his reward tonight to put Arsenal in front. ”
(Martin Keown singled out Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock against Eintracht Frankfurt(Image: GETTY / BT SPORT)()
Keown said Joe Willock’s performance against Frankfurt was a breakthrough moment(Image: BT SPORT)
Willock last week signed a long-term contract extension atArsenal.
Technica l director Edu revealed his delight at getting the youngster to commit his future to the Gunners.
“We ‘ re delighted that Joe has committed his long-term future to us, ”Edu told the official Arsenal website.
“The hard work of the academy coaches and staff, Joe, his family and everyone behind the scenes have been key to the development of his potential.
Joe Willock opened the scoring for Arsenal at Eintracht Frankfurt(Image: GETTY)
“Bringing young players through to the first team from the academy is an important part of our approach and Joe’s progression is a good example for how we want to work in the future.
“Joe has shown hard work and determination to get this far.
“He’s continuing to develop and we look forward to him making a big contribution to the club. ”
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