Anthony Gordon is expected to be fit to spearhead the attack at Villa Park for Newcastle's upcoming Premier League season opener in Birmingham. The ex-Everton winger has filled the No. 9 role for Newcastle in the absence of Alexander Isak and any other established senior centre-forwards.
Gordon delivered a commendable performance against Tottenham Hotspur in last weekend's 1-1 stalemate in Seoul, although he faced a sterner test against Atletico Madrid on Saturday during the Sela Cup final. A collective sigh of disappointment echoed through St James' Park when Gordon sustained an injury after pulling up towards the end of the 2-0 loss. He went straight down the tunnel after coming off.
However, the England international has taken to social media to calm supporters, saying: "Just twisted my ankle. No problems. Glad to be back home. Business time next."
Eddie Howe had earlier shared his thoughts post-match: "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 potential as a striker against Aston Villa isn't merely a desperate hope for the forthcoming match. He boasts 22 first-team goals and hit a rich seam of form in the middle of the previous season.
When asked about playing as a No. 9 during the club's tour of the Far East, Gordon explained: "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."