Eddie Howe is concerned about his Newcastle selection. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
In particular, it was a battle in attack, as summarized by Anthony Elanga. The £55million summer signing from Nottingham Forest has provided just one assist in 24 appearances in all competitions, although he is not the only one causing doubts at St James’ Park.
Anthony Elanga among three Newcastle players with concerns
According to Football insiderMick Brown has revealed Howe and Newcastle will only be concerned about the form of Elanga’s fellow wingers Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes.
“Elanga’s form is a concern for Newcastle given the money they are spending. It’s not his fault though, there are a few players at Newcastle who haven’t quite lived up to expectations so far this season and that’s why they’re struggling.”
“Gordon, for example, has not been anywhere near the level we expect from him. That will be a concern for both England and Newcastle. He hasn’t scored a single goal other than penalties for God knows how long and has failed to influence games.”
“Then you’ve got Barnes. One week he’ll really impress and the next week you won’t see him anymore. So those wide areas are a big problem for Newcastle and if you can’t create anything out wide it makes it difficult for the strikers to do their job. It’s certainly one of the reasons why they’ve struggled so much this season when you look at the players who just aren’t quite where you want them to be.”
Should Newcastle sign a new winger in January?
Newcastle were desperate for a right winger until Elanga’s arrival, but so far he hasn’t been the answer. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see a new signing in that position as there is PSR leeway for the Tyneside club.
#Eddie #Howe #concerned #Newcastle #players