Joe Willock has hailed Freddie Ljungberg's role in his own development after breaking into Arsenal's first-team set-up.

The 20-year-old midfielder was a surprise inclusion for the opening game of the season against Newcastle and kept his place for the visit of Burnley to the Emirates on Saturday.

Willock, who was starting a home league game for the first time, played the full 90 minutes of the 2-1 win.

Joe Willock has started Arsenal's first two Premier League games this campaign

Willock has credited Freddie Ljungberg, who is now part of the first-team set-up, for his help

Ljungberg stepped up to become part of Unai Emery's coaching team over the summer, having worked with Willock as part of the Under 23s last season.

And Willock is convinced that Ljungberg, who won the Premier League twice with Arsenal during his playing career, has had a big part to play in him earning a first-team berth.

'Freddie is not only such a legend at the club, he's an unbelievable manager and coach,' said Willock.

Willock receiving instructions from Ljungberg during an Under 23s game last campaign

'He's a mentor for me, he showed me a lot behind the scenes that people don't really know about.

'Every day I'm working with him and I'm learning from him.

'He's improved my whole overall game. If I'm being specific, getting in the pockets when I'm playing No 10 and attacking at No 8.

'He showed me a lot of different tactics to get space and turn to attack other teams. Those are the main things really.'