Joe Cole has lauded Joe Willock’s finish for Newcastle against West Ham that saw his side draw earn a 1-1 draw at the London Stadium.
Willock latched on to a poor defensive header from Declan Rice to nonchalantly direct the ball off the far post and across the line to score his first of the season with the help of goal-line technology.
The former Arsenal midfielder had a tremendous first half against the Hammers, many supporters branding him the best Newcastle player on the pitch.
Cole was also full of superlatives for the youngster, name-checking a Gunners great in his praise of the goal on BT Sport.
“If Denis Bergkamp does that, we’re all purring,” he said.
“This lad knows where the goal is, it’s his first this year but had a great spell last year.
“He drove with the ball, won free-kicks and has been the outstanding midfielder on the pitch. It was deserved.”
Fellow BT Sport pundit Jermaine Jenas also hailed the goal, saying: “The finish from Joe is out of this world, the creativity and contact is top drawer.”
Willock became the darling of St James’ Park towards the end of last season, his eight goals guiding Newcastle to safety during his loan spell.
He made his move permanent in the summer, joining for around £25million.
The 22-year-old has played 22 games in all competitions this season, now being one of the first names Eddie Howe puts on his team sheet.
