NafisaEddie Howe has insisted there can be no doubts about Anthony Elanga’s quality following Newcastle United’s defeat to Sunderland.
Elanga was one of Newcastle United’s worst performers during their latest defeat to Sunderland.
The Sweden star started on the right of an attacking three that also included Anthony Gordon and Nick Woltemade.
None of them played well. The wingers were ineffective, while the striker’s only notable moment came when he put through his own net.
Who was Newcastle United’s most disappointing player vs Sunderland?
Feel free to list all of them in the comments 👀
It was a collective failing on Wearside as Newcastle lost to Sunderland in the Tyne-Wear derby.
It is difficult, however, to take Elanga’s poor performance in isolation. The winger has struggled to convince since his move from Nottingham Forest, recording just one assist thus far.
Still, Howe believes the former Manchester United youngster can still come good.
Eddie Howe vows to help Anthony Elanga improve after Newcastle United lose to Sunderland
Elanga invoked the ire of plenty of Toon fans online following the game.
Again, it is harsh to blame just one player after such a turgid performance. He was far from alone in failing to impress.
However, it was natural that the Newcastle United manager was asked about his selection in his post-match press conference.
Elanga just hasn’t convinced and there is little point in ignoring that fact.
Asked about his outing at the home of Newcastle’s greatest rivals, Howe said: “It wasn’t the finest day for any of our front players, I think, today.
“All through the game – but certainly in that first 60 minutes it was tough for them. I’m sure those lads will be reflective of their performance and know that they could have played better individually.
“I have to just try and find ways to help them and deliver them their best performances, because there’s no doubting the quality of those players.”
Anthony Elanga had a day to forget against Sunderland 😟 Would starting Jacob Murphy have changed things?!
Anthony Elanga has not convinced since joining Newcastle United. Anthony Elanga deserves more time to come good. Both of these things can be true at the same time.
Why Anthony Elanga isn’t completely to blame for Newcastle United’s loss to Sunderland
Howe’s tactical plan for Newcastle against Sunderland was flawed.
On paper, the idea of sitting back and having the likes of Elanga and Gordon to spring off Woltemade on the counter sounds like a good idea.
In practice, it just didn’t work. Newcastle were just far too deep and they could not do much on the ball even when they did get it.
It’s natural to be disappointed with Elanga, having cost so much money.
He does need to show more but Howe hardly provided the best conditions for him to thrive.
Nafisa
Mustapha Sheidu