“Eddie Howe FURIOUS Over SHOCKING Revelation About Newcastle United’s Summer Signing – You WON’T Believe What He Heard!”

Eddie Howe has expressed satisfaction with Anthony Elanga’s early days as a Newcastle United player, despite the winger not yet registering a goal or assist.

Elanga became Newcastle’s first summer signing after a £55 million switch from Nottingham Forest.

The 23-year-old featured in the Magpies’ opening two league fixtures against Aston Villa and Liverpool but has since rotated with Jacob Murphy.

Murphy has started the last three Premier League outings versus Leeds United, Wolves, and Bournemouth, while Elanga has been handed opportunities in cup competitions.

The Swedish international started in last week’s Champions League clash with Barcelona at St James’ Park and followed up by featuring in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup third-round victory over Bradford City.

Murphy has two assists to his name so far this season, while Elanga has yet to record a direct contribution. When asked about that statistic, Howe was quick to defend his new signing.

“I think that’s a harsh one,” said the Newcastle boss. “Yes, statistically you’re right, but you also have to look at the chances he’s created.

Sometimes it’s not on him if the player he supplies doesn’t finish. It’s fine margins. If one of those chances goes in, he gets the assist, and it changes the narrative.

“I’ve been very happy with his overall performances. He’s been a constant threat, and you can see his qualities—his pace and power make him so difficult to defend against. Of course, there’s still room for improvement, and that’s something we’ll work on together.”

Howe confirmed that Murphy, who has been dealing with an Achilles problem, was rested against Bradford but remains available for selection.

“He’s doing okay,” Howe explained. “It’s an issue we’re managing. Achilles tendon problems can linger, and sometimes players just have to play through them.

He’s in a place where he’s fit and available, but on certain days he’s sore. We just have to manage his load carefully.”

Murphy’s return to the squad for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Arsenal gives Howe a selection dilemma.

The head coach must weigh up whether to start Murphy or Elanga, with squad rotation also in mind.

Newcastle face a demanding schedule, including Wednesday’s Champions League trip to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise and a league encounter against Nottingham Forest the following weekend.

Howe’s faith in Elanga underlines his belief that the winger will soon deliver end product, while Murphy’s recovery provides much-needed depth during a crucial period for Newcastle.