Football

‘People haven’t seen what I’m capable of yet’ – Newcastle man backs himself to shine

January 30, 2023 11:00 am
‘People haven’t seen what I’m capable of yet’ – Newcastle man backs himself to shine

Newcastle attacker Anthony Gordon has backed himself to hit the ground running at his new club, saying football fans have yet to see his full potential.

The 21-year-old has left Everton for high-flying Newcastle in a deal worth around £45m, having been with the Toffees since he was 11 years old.

Both the Magpies and Chelsea were reportedly chasing his signature for months, with Gordon recently submitting a formal transfer request to leave Everton. Eddie Howe’s side have now won the race, with the winger leaving Goodison Park having scored seven goals in his 78 matches.

Newcastle attacker backs himself to shine

It’s been a hugely frustrating campaign for the Toffees, who recently parted ways with manager Frank Lampard amid a disastrous run. They currently sit 19th in the Premier League table, winning just three of their 20 matches so far.

Gordon has also been frustrated of late, last starting a game in the home defeat to Wolves on Boxing Day as he looked to force an exit from Goodison. The attacker’s last goal came in late October against Crystal Palace, a game which represents Everton’s last win in all competitions. But the 21-year-old is now ready to put the past behind him and shine at St James’ Park.

He told the Newcastle website: “Since I heard of the interest, I was always convinced Newcastle were for me.

“I think the fan base and the city really suits me as a person, the way the team are playing under the gaffer at the minute really suits me, and the club just look like they’re heading in the right direction.

“I feel like it’s a really big step. People haven’t seen what I’m capable of yet. I think under the gaffer, and the way the club’s going, I can really excel here.”

Howe delighted with more attacking firepower

With just 11 goals conceded this season, Newcastle boast the best defensive record in the Premier League. But with 33 goals scored, they are not at the top of the pile, with Howe perhaps bringing in Gordon in order to bolster the goals tally this season.

Strikers Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak have both had time on the sidelines due to injury, with winger Miguel Almiron the club’s top scorer with nine league goals.

The manager expressed his delight at his new forward, saying: “I’m delighted to sign Anthony – he’s a top, top talent. I’m really excited to work with him, to develop him, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do in a Newcastle shirt.”

Newcastle

Gordon ready for Newcastle debut

Gordon has netted just three goals this season, but he has been a standout in a struggling Everton side. The young winger joins the Magpies at a crucial time for the club, with Howe’s men taking on Southampton in the second leg of their League Cup semi-final clash on Tuesday.

Newcastle go into the game leading 1-0 on aggregate, with Howe undoubtedly having an eye on Saturday’s evening Premier League meeting with West Ham as they look to continue their fine run of form.

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