Joe Willock is ‘buzzing’ to be back on Tyneside, revealing just how excited he is to play in front of a packed out St James’ Park for the first time.
He’s signed a SIX-year deal at the club, however he won’t be able to feature in Sunday’s clash with West Ham after failing to be registered before today’s 12pm deadline.
The 21-year-old admits it was a ‘big step’ to leave home and his boyhood club in Arsenal, but believes it’s the ‘right move at the right time’ for the sake of his career.
Steve Bruce has also hailed his signing on a permanent deal, thanking Lee Charnley for his efforts and insisting that it’s all been worth the wait after what’s been a summer long transfer saga!
Here’s what both told nufc.co.uk, starting with the former Gunners midfielder himself:
Joe Willock:
“I’m buzzing to be here,”
“I loved my time here last season and I’m really happy to be back and to be a Newcastle United player.
“Leaving Arsenal is obviously a big step, and I’d like to thank everyone involved with the club for all their support over the years, but this is the right move to the right club at the right time for me.
“I only got one chance to play in front of a smaller number of Newcastle fans as a home player last season, so I can’t wait to step out in front of a packed St. James’ Park and experience that atmosphere.
“Come on, you Maggies!”
Steve Bruce:
“I’m absolutely delighted to secure our number one target.
“We have had to be patient and persistent, but it has been worth the wait to bring Joe back.
“I want to thank Lee Charnley in particular for the work he has put in to make the deal happen. The club have gone above and beyond to make it possible.
“Joe is a wonderful young player with all the attributes you want in a midfielder, and he certainly proved that during his time with us last season.
“This is a move I know our supporters really wanted us to make, and I know they will join me in giving Joe a very warm welcome back to St. James’ Park.”
Drawn out unnecessarily and missed the deadline, surprised they got the deal done, didn’t expect it but thankful they did!
Joseph(Quote)