Eddie Howe knows what his XI at Aston Villa could look like but did not need a late scare on Anthony Gordon
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United
Newcastle's Anthony Gordon had an injury scare against Atletico Madrid
(Image: Getty Images)
Anthony Gordon should be fit to lead the line at Villa Park for next weekend's Premier League curtain raiser in the second city.
The former Everton star has been deployed as a no.9 in the absence of Alexander Isak and any other recognised senior centre-forwards on the books at Newcastle.
Gordon had an effective game against Tottenham Hotspur in the 1-1 draw in Seoul last weekend but found it tougher against Atletico Madrid on Saturday in the Sela Cup showpiece.
There was a collective groan around St James' Park as Gordon went down with an injury after pulling up in the latter stage of the 2-0 defeat.
But the England man has taken to social media to reassure fans and said: "Just twisted my ankle. No problems.
"Glad to be back home. Business time next..."
Anthony Gordon's injury update on Instagram
Anthony Gordon's injury update on Instagram
Eddie Howe had also reflected after the game: "We hope he's OK. I think it's an ankle twist. I did fear a muscle problem but I don't think that's the case."
Gordon's presence as a potential striker against Aston Villa is more than just a straw to clutch on next weekend. After all he does have 22 first-team goals to his name and enjoyed a rich vein of form in the middle of last season.
When asked by Chronicle Live during the club's Far East tour if playing No 9 would be a role he'd relish, Gordon said: "I’ve said before, I like playing No 9. I would have to practice and get the reps in to get the patterns that we do. If that’s a challenge the manager wants to throw at me, I’m happy."
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