Shay Given has stated that Anthony Gordon has a ‘big future’ at Newcastle United following his January transfer from Everton.
The former goalkeeper added that Gordon has qualities ‘you can’t coach’, from the ‘fiery’ nature to his game and just his sheer will to win, at any costs.
Back in the summer, there was a huge clamour for Gordon’s signature, but the 22-year-old stayed put at his boyhood club on Merseyside.
He then proceeded to struggle once the transfer window slammed shut, with Everton in the middle of a relegation fight and deciding to sell one of their key players during the middle of the campaign.
Well, on Saturday, as Newcastle were beaten 2-0 at Manchester City, Gordon, started his second league game for his new club.
And Shay Given explained what the Englishman has over someone like Allan Saint-Maximin, as he told Premier League Productions (04/03/23 at 12:15 pm).
“I think he (Gordon) is going to have a big future at the football club,” said Given. “I don’t think it’s a surprise that he starts. Saint-Maximin, we know offensively he is good, but defensively, there are huge question marks of Saint-Maximin. Can he defend?
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“But I think Anthony Gordon will give you a bit of both. He has a fiery side to him. We have seen some of his tackles. It’s something you can’t coach in a kid.
“He’s got that will to win. I think, under Eddie Howe, he has got a brilliant manager who can get something out of him.”
GORDON’S BIG TEST WILL COME NEXT SEASON
Given that Gordon has walked in midway through the season, he will be allowed to settle in and get used to his new surroundings.
But his real test and biggest pressure will come next season, when he is expected to perform on a consistent basis for a Newcastle side that will be pushing for Champions League football.
Whilst Eddie Howe’s side have slipped up of late, they still have a chance to reach that goal this season, which would be premature in their long-term plans for this club.
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