Eddie Howe needs more from his Newcastle United stars.
The Magpies’ top players are yet to really burst into life this season. Alexander Isak has only scored one goal, and looked rusty against Brighton last weekend.
However, there is hope of improvement, with Howe insisting that Isak is fully fit to face Chelsea.
Elsewhere, Bruno Guimaraes is not at his best, while Joelinton is blowing hot and cold.
And the same goes for Anthony Gordon.
Anthony Gordon’s Newcastle United struggles
It has been a strange start to the season for Gordon. The 23-year-old was not playing very well, with Gordon insisting he was simply not fit enough.
The winger did start to improve, only to miss a penalty against his former club Everton in a 0-0 draw.
Gordon then looked shy of confidence against Brighton.
However, Eddie Howe is of the belief that we will soon see the real Anthony Gordon.
Eddie Howe ecstatic about Anthony Gordon news
Gordon has signed a new contract with Newcastle United, and Howe is delighted to retain the services of the England international.
The Newcastle United manager has praised the club for getting the deal done, and believes it could be a catalyst for Gordon to start playing at a higher level.
“Really pleased for him and for us, it is a really smart bit of work from the club and Anthony,” he said.
“Now he can really focus on his season and us.
“He is such a talent, and we need him, this will help him get back to his best no doubt.”
No more distractions for Gordon
Since the speculation over his future, Gordon has not been the same player.
He almost left the club over the summer, with Newcastle offering Gordon to Liverpool as they desperately tried to comply with PSR.
In the end, Newcastle found another way. However, it was reported that Gordon’s head was turned by Liverpool’s interest.
Despite that, the summer ended with Gordon still at St James’ Park. He was not playing well, and the fear was that it was related to what had gone on over the summer.
Alas, the £40million man simply was not fit, and he has since had a couple of tough moments against Everton and Brighton. That can happen to anyone.
But Gordon was outstanding in the draw with Manchester City, showcasing the kind of talent that we know he has got. He is an exceptional player – one of the best in the Premier League.
Now he will look to prove that on a consistent basis, and Howe expects that to happen now that the speculation over his future can end.
Gordon has signed a bumper new deal with the Magpies, and he will be very eager to justify it.
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