Newcastle United have signed a proven Premier League player in Anthony Elanga, but also someone who they believe can improve even further.
The Magpies have finally got their man, with Elanga officially joining Newcastle United on 11th July. He has signed a five-year deal at St James’ Park and has already met plenty of his new teammates.
Eddie Howe is ‘delighted’ to sign Elanga, as he finally lands what will hopefully prove to be the missing piece of the jigsaw. Newcastle United have been crying out for more depth on the right of attack, and will believe they have got it in the Sweden international.
Given his experiences with Manchester United and Nottingham Forest, Elanga will not need an adaptation period. He can have an immediate impact on Tyneside, but there is still scope for improvement.
Newcastle United unveil Anthony Elanga after signing him from Nottingham Forest.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Newcastle United identify scoring goals and two more areas that Anthony Elanga can improve in
Eddie Howe is the master when it comes to enhancing the ability of his players, and there is already a plan in place for the areas that Elanga needs to work on.
That is according to the Athletic, who have listed three ways in which Newcastle United think that Elanga can still improve:
Newcastle United believe Elanga can score more goals
They want him to work on his ability to execute a high press
His overall level of consistency can be worked on
In terms of goals, the 23-year-old has just enjoyed the most prolific season of his career. He scored six times in all competitions, with Elanga boasting just 16 professional goals from his time at Manchester United and Nottingham Forest across 137 appearances.
Howe will be particularly keen to make Elanga a more proficient presser, as that is a huge part of Newcastle United’s game. The Magpies play with incredible intensity, and Elanga will need to match that to ensure he fits in.
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In terms of consistency, Howe needs Elanga to be able to deliver for sustained periods of time. That is something that his other wingers were able to do last season.
Anthony Gordon got a goal or an assist in eight consecutive games during the winter. Harvey Barnes provided eight goal contributions in six consecutive Premier League games during March and April.
Jacob Murphy was the most consistent winger at St James’ Park last season. His longest stretch of appearances without a goal or an assist was six games. He contributed all season, with Murphy providing nine goals and 13 assists.
Anthony Elanga has made it clear he wants to fit in at Newcastle United
It will take a lot of hard work for Elanga to be a major hit at St James’ Park. That is not a slight on the man himself, but rather a reflection of the standards that Howe sets.
But Elanga is ready for the challenge ahead, making it clear in his first interview with the club’s official website that he is prepared to embrace what makes Newcastle United special.
He said: “I really want to buy into the culture, into the DNA of this club. I’m really happy to be here and I can’t wait to get started.”
That kind of attitude will serve him well, as he sets about justifying the Magpies’ decision to spend £55million on him.