Arteta's telling answer when asked about Joe Willock absence - NUFC move edging closer?

If Mikel Arteta's latest comments on Joe Willock's 'mystery' absence are anything to go by, we may just be edging closer to a decision on the Arsenal midfielder's future.

The 21-year-old was left out of their squad for today's final pre-season friendly at Tottenham - a game they went on to lose 1-0.

He wasn't injured and the reasons behind his absence weren't explained prior to the game, however Mikel Arteta has since spoken to the press - and has given a pretty telling response when asked if it was anything to do with a potential return to St James' Park.

Here's what he had to say when quizzed after the game by a local reporter, stating "when I can say more I will let you know"...

Q: Any update on Joe Willock's absence?

Arteta: "We'll explain the reasons when we can.

?: Are we presuming on Joe (missing from the squad), it's to do with a transfer to Newcastle?

??????: "That's all I can say now. When I can say more I will let you know"

Considering he isn't injured, this feels like a pretty ominous update from Arteta - and one that could well bode well for Steve Bruce. Unless, of course, it's because he's heading somewhere else...

Fingers crossed, folks!