Arteta: Willock´s Premier League chance will come

Mikel Arteta assured Joe Willock his Premier League chance will come if the midfielder maintains the standard he set in Arsenal’s 4-1 Europa League win over Molde.

Willock scored the Gunners’ last goal and was the architect for one of two Molde own goals as they came from behind to maintain their perfect Group B record and go three points clear at the top.

The 21-year-old has not played in the Premier League yet this season, but staked his claim with an all-action display at Emirates Stadium on Thursday.

He had four shots, with two on target, was involved in 17 duels and only gave the ball away three times, playing a big part in getting Arsenal ticking after they fell behind to a long-range strike from Martin Ellingsen.

Arteta has plenty of options in midfield, but says Willock can feature more frequently if he continues to make such an impact.

YESSS! WILLOCK!

4-1 (88)

#UEL pic.twitter.com/raxQb4y0ks

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 5, 2020

The Arsenal boss told BT Sport: “Joe Willock could have scored more, he created a goal and a good performance. Keep doing what he is doing consistently and his chance will arrive [in the Premier League].”

Arteta was impressed by the way his side fought back after falling behind against a side that had won their opening two group matches.

He said: “It was really important for us to win tonight and go top of the group. We had a convincing victory and the boys tried to go for them from the first minute.

“We went a goal behind but it was about the reaction, we created lot of chances.

“If they did not score the own goals, we had players there for the tap in. We could sustain attacks and we did not want to let them run on the counter because they are a threat.

“I really like the approach that the younger players are having for each game, they want to make the difference, they are playing with a lot of personality.”

Nicolas Pepe scored Arsenal’s third goal after Kristoffer Haugen and Sheriff Sinyan found the back of their own net.