In the 2023 January transfer window, Newcastle United decided to pounce on a player they had been evaluating for quite some time, Everton forward Anthony Gordon.
With high hopes for the 21-year-old, what can Newcastle United fans expect from him once he gets legitimate game-time action?
It was reported earlier this week that Eddie Howe, the general manager for Newcastle, was pondering the thought of giving Gordon his first start for the team. While he did impress in his debut against West Ham just last weekend, throwing him into the flames of a starting role too quickly may burst the confidence he is trying to build.
After signing him to a £45,000,000 contract just a few weeks ago, Howe must find an appropriate role for the young prospect.
Through 35 games last season with Everton, he contributed four goals and two assists in his first entire season as an active member of the starting 11. This year, he added three goals and zero assists for the team through 16 contests.
While it may look like Newcastle overpaid for Gordon, he still has a plethora of time to adjust to the new life in St. James Park.
As a Newcastle United fan, what should you expect?
Anthony Gordon is still at the start of his blossoming career, with just one full season under his belt, and countless smaller seasons, he still needs time to adjust to the Premier League level. With Newcastle United also a contending team as they sit atop the league table, the pressure on his shoulders must be heavy.
It will be a big testament to how he handles the bright lights, considering he was already caught in the media eye breaking a road violation just a short time ago.
If he were to start this coming week against Bournemouth, I would expect to see Gordon impress once again. In just 22 minutes played last week, he was able to get the crowd back into the game with a pass that helped win a corner and had a really positive debut display despite limited time on the pitch.
He was also widely regarded as the top player in that 1-1 tie with West Ham United.
Throughout the rest of the season, there is no doubt that Howe would give him some time to shine in the starting lineup, but with the Champions League around the corner, there is no room for error.
Howe will have a tough task giving Gordon leeway to adjust, but with team inconsistencies scoring the ball up top, he may be given just that extra edge he needs.
Make sure to keep your eyes on Anthony Gordon Saturday as Newcastle United gears up to take on Bournemouth at 5:30 P.M. GMT and 12:30 P.M. EST.
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