Anthony Gordon is a talent that Newcastle United can’t afford to lose, and with a new contract in place, he can finally put the speculation surrounding his future to bed. Manager Eddie Howe believes the deal will allow Gordon to focus on his football, rather than the constant rumors and speculation that have plagued him all summer.
Gordon was a hot commodity after being linked with a move to Liverpool during the Euros, and it’s no surprise that the 20-year-old was affected by the constant attention. “It cuts out a lot of needless noise around his future,” Howe said. “I think now that he can really focus on this season and performing at his very best level.” With a sense of stability finally returning, Gordon can channel his energy into getting back to the form that saw him score 12 goals from the left wing last season.
For many players, the summer transfer window can be a daunting and unsettling experience, with constant whispers about their future and constant pressure to perform. Gordon is no exception. “I think it was a difficult summer for him, there’s no doubt about that,” Howe said. “I think it was a difficult summer for a lot of the players. Through no fault of their own, they’re reading headlines on their futures, which can be destabilizing, which can lead to a lot of needless energy wasted and a lot of distraction.”
While Gordon will be hoping to get his goalscoring form back on track, forward Callum Wilson will be sweating it out on the sidelines after picking up an injury. “He’s no longer injured,” Howe confirmed, “but won’t be ready for the next three games due to tightness in his body.” However, fans can take heart in knowing that Alexander Isak has made a successful return, playing the full 90 minutes in last week’s defeat to Brighton. With a renewed sense of purpose and a bit of luck, Newcastle will be hoping to bounce back from last weekend’s loss with a win against Chelsea on Sunday.
