Anthony Gordon admits that the transfer speculation surrounding Alexander Isak has tested Newcastle United’s squad. Despite a goalless draw against Aston Villa, Newcastle remains focused. Isak’s absence and potential move to Liverpool have created uncertainty, but Gordon believes the team’s strong spirit will prevail. The upcoming match against Liverpool is expected to be intense.
Newcastle United's squad has been tested by the recent transfer speculation surrounding striker Alexander Isak, according to winger Anthony Gordon. The Magpies are trying to navigate the noise as they aim to improve on last season's strong Premier League showing. Isak, a key figure in their attack, has been linked with a move away from the club, with Liverpool reportedly showing strong interest. This uncertainty has created a challenging environment within the team, as Gordon revealed.
Newcastle opened their Premier League campaign with a frustrating goalless draw against Aston Villa. The match at Villa Park saw the home side reduced to 10 men after Ezri Konsa's red card for a foul on Gordon. Despite the numerical advantage, Newcastle couldn't find a breakthrough, highlighting Isak's absence in the final third. The team generated 1.47 expected goals (xG) compared to Villa's 0.13, but the lack of a clinical finisher proved costly.
The statistics paint a clear picture of Newcastle's struggles without Isak. They have failed to win any of their last six Premier League games when he's been absent, and have failed to score in the last four of those matches. Despite recording 75 shots (totaling 9.4 xG) in these six games, the goals simply haven't come. This underscores his importance to the team's attacking prowess.
Isak's future has been a major talking point throughout the summer transfer window. Liverpool have been heavily linked with the Swedish international, reportedly having an initial bid of £110 million rejected. This speculation has undoubtedly unsettled the Newcastle camp, with manager Eddie Howe keen to resolve the situation as quickly as possible. The player was excluded from the pre-season camp and is currently training away from the squad, adding fuel to the transfer rumors.
Gordon acknowledged that the situation has been difficult for the squad, emphasizing the tight-knit nature of the group. The public nature of the transfer speculation has been a new experience for the team, testing their unity and resolve. However, he believes that it could ultimately make the squad stronger in the long run.
"It has been difficult because we're a tight-knit group," Gordon told TNT Sports. "We've never really had any problems publicly and that being the first that's happened has tested us. But you see today we've still got that spirit and togetherness." He highlighted the team's commitment to maintaining a strong bond, regardless of individual circumstances. "We work on it every day and it's never gonna go away regardless of individuals. We're a top group, our togetherness is top and it always will be." Gordon expressed confidence that the team would emerge stronger from this experience. "Things like this can sort of battle-test and make you better in the end and I think that's the case."
Newcastle's next challenge is a home game against Liverpool, a repeat of last season's EFL Cup final in which Isak scored. With the backdrop of Liverpool's interest in Isak, the match is set to be a fiery encounter. The atmosphere at St. James' Park will be electric, and Gordon anticipates a tough test against the reigning league champions.
"I think with everything that's gone on the atmosphere is going to be a bit wild," Gordon added. "I'm just excited to see the home fans again and get back in the stadium. It's gonna be a top game." Newcastle will need to put the Isak speculation behind them and focus on securing a positive result against a strong Liverpool side.
The Newcastle squad face Liverpool at St James' Park next week, Eddie Howe will be hoping that the transfer situation is resolved sooner rather than later. The Magpies have a tough run of games coming up and will be hoping Isak will be available for selection or a replacement has been sought out.