If 'Assist of the Season' was to suddenly become a recognised Premier League award, Joe Willock would have the accolade sewn up already. His outright ridiculous pass to tee up Alexander Isak's first and Newcastle United's fourth goal radiated self-assurance and will certainly go down in St James' Park history following Sunday's 6-1 mauling of Tottenham Hotspur.
Willock's stunning setup understandably grabbed the headlines but it was another complete performance from a midfielder playing at his very, very best of late. Eddie Howe has transformed the careers of so many Magpies since his Tyneside arrival and Willock has been added to that illustrious list in recent months.
On this exact day two years ago the former Arsenal academy graduate hit a 95th-minute equaliser against Liverpool during a stellar run of form which saw him score seven goals in seven games for Steve Bruce's Newcastle. That impressive period in front of goal prompted an entire summer budget to be splashed to ensure Willock made his loan switch a permanent one in the summer of 2021.
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Newcastle fans haven't been treated to a repeat of those goalscoring exploits since but are seeing a more well-rounded player than was purchased by Bruce. As such, the inevitable England shouts are growing louder.
"I've said before it should be his goal, it should be his personal motivation," Howe replied when asked about Willock's Three Lions potential. "He will be getting closer after displays like that. All action, can do a little bit of everything.
"The attacking side, the defensive side has definitely improved. I still believe there is more in there for Joe to prove. He's got to be knocking on the door."
Willock's attacking ability has certainly improved during Newcastle's acceleration towards Europe's top table. Helped no end by the introduction of new confidant Alexander Isak. The Swede, who took his Premier League tally to 10 following Sunday's brace, has struck up a fine relationship with most of those he shares the St James' Park dressing room with. But his bond with Willock on and off the pitch is already clear to see.
Even the quickest of glimpses at either player's social media and you will find behind the scenes footage of the pair hanging out during training at Darsley Park. It's no surprise Isak instantly ran to Willock after his outrageous assist before celebrating himself.
"All praise to Joe," Isak told NUFC TV. "That assist is the best that someone that has ever given me. I think he should have all the praise for that goal."
Of course, others have done their bit. Joelinton continues to help Willock down the left, while Burn is another who benefits from having the in-form midfielder in front of him. Bruno Guimaraes is another who seems to relish sharing the middle of the park with him.
The Brazilian made his feelings clear at full-time, using Willock's new-found, now infamous nickname when offering the highest of praise for his St James' Park exploits.
“Willockinho with his new hair today," Bruno remarked. "He looked like Ronaldinho and played like him too. An amazing through ball for the goal. What a pass! Only Modric can play a pass like that. It was amazing.”
Willock is receiving the love he no doubt craved when rising through the ranks at Arsenal. That's not to say the 25-year-old wasn't respected and appreciated at his boyhood club. But the 'Maggies' faithful have truly taken the Hale End graduate into their hearts.
It was a huge gamble for the London lad to leave the capital and travel up north after a short stint on loan with Newcastle. By the looks of things, there is no regret from either party.
"It’s amazing, it's the best stadium in the world and we have the best fans in the world, it was a terrific performance," Willock said as he watched his team-mates partake in their post-match lap of honour.
The sky is the limit. Not only for this revamped Newcastle United side but for Willock himself. He has a manager who he is thriving under, a fan base in awe of him and a shot at Champions League football next term. You'd have to imagine another manager is taking note after recent performances.
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