‘Electric’… Eddie Howe amazed by how much 22-year-old Newcastle player has improved this season

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One of Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United players showed off his versatility against Aston Villa, and it came at the ideal time.

The Magpies won 3-1 at Villa Park, but it was not a perfect night. The one negative came in the shape of Alexander Isak, who was forced off with an injury. Eddie Howe hopes that it is not too serious, but it is massively concerning for Toon fans.

It comes at a time when Callum Wilson is also out of action, meaning Newcastle might not have any fit strikers for Saturday’s game against Luton Town.

That is a worry, but Howe has someone who can do a job there – Anthony Gordon.

The 22-year-old was outstanding on Tuesday night, causing Villa countless problems all night. He started on the left wing, but dovetailed brilliantly with Isak during the first 40 minutes.

And when Isak had to come off, Gordon remained up front and was a constant threat.

Eddie Howe thrilled with Anthony Gordon against Aston Villa

His performance delighted Eddie Howe, who was full of praise for Gordon when asked about him after the game on TNT Sports.

“Really happy [with Gordon],” he said.

“A lot of improvement throughout the season from him.

“Today he was electric with his pace. Gave them real problems. He has turned into a goalscorer and a goal assister for us.

“Delighted with his contribution and then he moved to the number nine role and did really well there too.”

Newcastle’s number 10 was immense on Tuesday night

As Howe says, Gordon gave Villa problems all night. They could not handle his pace, regardless of whether he was coming from out wide or through the middle.

His efforts as a striker were hugely impressive, and will give Howe encouragement given the worrying situation regarding Isak and Wilson.

For now, it looks like Gordon will be able to do a job up front. In fact, he has even been predicted to transition into a striker in the future by one of his former coaches.

Newcastle have had to rely on Gordon’s versatility a lot this season, and that looks likely to happen again. But that is not cause for concern, as the Scouser has proven that he is more than up to the task.

He was outstanding at Villa Park, as he continues to grow as a footballer in black and white.