Steven Gerrard has admitted he didn’t want Matt Targett to leave Aston Villa last month, as the full-back shone last night on his Newcastle United debut.
The Magpies secured a huge win over Everton in the Premier League, beating the Toffees 3-1 at St. James’ Park.
There were fantastic individual performances all over the pitch for Newcastle.
Allan Saint-Maximin stole the show and was at times unplayable.
But it was a really solid debut from Targett, who was the only one of Newcastle’s final three January signings to start last night.
The 26-year-old was just solid in everything he did. And it appears Newcastle have done fantastic business getting him in on loan.
It is somewhat surprising that Villa permitted him to depart, and Gerrard has explained the reasoning behind it.
He said (Express & Star): “I would have preferred him (Targett) to stay and fight as he is a really strong left-back in this league, which is why he had options.
“But I can’t stand in anyone’s way unless I can guarantee him game time that will satisfy him, so that’s why it’s come about.
“Everyone needs to know it was Matt’s decision rather than him being pushed in that direction.”
Newcastle already look to be onto a winner with Matt Targett, as Steven Gerrard insists it was his choice to leave Villa
Newcastle were linked with a move for Lucas Digne at one point in January.
Ironically, missing out on him appears to have played a big part in the club landing £35,000-a-week star Targett (Spotrac), who was excellent last night against Everton.
The full-back positions in football are so important nowadays, especially for managers who want to play attacking football.
So for the club to now have two quality players in Targett and Kieran Trippier is very encouraging indeed.
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