Newcastle United splashed out on £250million worth of talent over the summer to compensate for Alexander Isak’s sale.
Former Chelsea and England star Joe Cole believes Newcastle United are better equipped following Alexander Isak’s sale.
A turbulent summer window saw the news agenda centre around Isak’s eventual move to Liverpool. The Swede downed tools throughout pre-season to force through a British record transfer.
His actions burned all bridges he previously had at St James' Park - with Newcastle left reeling after losing their prized asset. Toon chiefs bounced back in the transfer market to sign Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade as his replacement.
Joe Cole loving Newcastle United depth
Speaking to TNT Sports, ex-Premier League playmaker Cole hailed Newcastle for bolstering their attacking options. He was also left impressed by the manner of United’s win over Benfica.
“To compete on more fronts you need players who can come in,” Cole said. “You look at the numbers they have and I think they're in a better position. I think this team, playing on the front foot, with all their attacking options…
“Anthony Gordon, (Harvey) Barnes, (Jacob) Murphy, (Anthony) Elanga, the midfielders can score goals, you've got Woltemade, Wissa to come into this squad. To be where they're at, playing on the front foot, seeing games out and brushing Benfica aside by the end was very impressive.
“That's a really impressive performance. That Benfica team went to Stamford Bridge and nearly got a result but Newcastle blew them out of the water. Eddie Howe will be delighted because all his changes worked, his subs worked, they're sitting in the top eight of the Champions League with two wins from three and it's all looking upwards.”
Anthony Gordon singled out
Cole continued with his Newcastle love-in - insisting Gordon is a banker for the World Cup next summer. He added: “I've admired the kid since he was at Everton. I love his tenacity. Forget his ability and going by players, I look at him and think 'I want you in my team'.
“He's got that bite. He's not taking his flowers in the interview because he's got three goals in three because he's like 'I want more'. (He’s) a shoo-in for England.”
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Anthony Gordon wants more
Gordon is wanting more success at St James’ Park after becoming the first Toon star to score in three consecutive Champions League games. He said post-match: "It means everything (to be the first Newcastle player to score in three consecutive Champions League games) but we need more, my ambition doesn't stop there.
“Because we had so many chances, we had to put one away to calm the nerves. I was glad to see it go in. Playing with (Jacob) Murphy, I knew he was going to play that ball every time. That goal is all about him.”
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