Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe believes Anthony Elanga can go on to great things for the club.
Elanga struggled for Newcastle United against Brighton in their 2-1 Premier League defeat on Saturday, although he was far from alone in that.
The Sweden international – alongside the equally ineffective Joelinton – was hooked at half-time.
Elanga is struggling to convince right now, there’s little doubt about that. In his defence, almost all of Newcastle’s attacking players other than Nick Woltemade are enduring similar issues.
Still, as Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall have proven before, it sometimes takes players a while to adapt to life under the Newcastle United manager.
After the Brighton game, Howe issued a stirring defence of his player.
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Eddie Howe backs Anthony Elanga to come good for Newcastle United
Howe was asked whether Newcastle needed more from Elanga.
Clearly, they do, but it would also be foolish to overlook Newcastle’s wider struggles. None of their wingers have scored in the Premier League this season, while only Jacob Murphy has provided an assist.
“We need more from everybody, it’s never about one player,” he said.
“Anthony is going to be a great player for this football club, I’ve got no doubt about that.
“Some players need a little bit more time and more support and just something to happen positively for them to suddenly kick on.
“He’s got all the attributes to do really well here so I’ve got no issues or worries with him. It’s about the team, it’s always about the collective.”
Anthony Elanga thinks Eddie Howe is the best manager he’s ever had
Elanga is in safe hands, even if he’s endured a difficult start to life at the club.
Howe is a brilliant manager and one who has consistently improved various players during his time on Tyneside.
The man fighting Elanga for a starting berth on Newcastle’s right wing can vouch for that. Murphy has become a leading Premier League star under his guidance.
There’s every reason to believe that things will come good. All the tools are there and a settling in period has to be expected somewhat.
Elanga thinks Howe is his greatest-ever manager, so both parties appear to have full confidence that this really can work out in the long term.
“A fantastic coach who I’m learning a lot from,” Elanga said of Howe.
“For me, he is the best coach I have ever had. He helps me a lot on and off the field. I feel like I am getting better.”
It will be fascinating to see who Howe starts against Benfica on Tuesday.
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