Gordon going nowhere, says Toffees boss
FRANK Lampard has issued a hands-off warning to Newcastle United and Tottenham, insisting that Anthony Gordon will not be leaving Goodison Park.
The Magpies are among a number of sides linked with a move for the England youth international who was a bright spark for the Toffees in a disappointing season.
The Chronicle reported earlier this week that the Toon were still in dialogue over a potential deal for Gordon, but it’s claimed that Lampard said selling Gordon would be ‘unacceptable’ having already sold Richarlison this summer.
The Toffees are hoping to avoid a repeat of last year, where they ensured Premier League survival on the penultimate game of the season.
Everton gave Gordon the number ten shirt earlier this week in an attempt to keep him on Merseyside. It’s claimed the England international was excited by the prospect of playing in Europe after links to Tottenham, but he was not actively trying to force a move away from Goodison.
Lampard told Everton’s official Twitter: “You have to work to get the number 10 shirt and Anthony has done that. He’s a link to the crowd, a link to the fans, he’s a local boy and a great talent. He gives everything and is going nowhere – he is our player.
“That was something that’s hugely important to me – he’s the sort of player we want to build going forward with and I’m delighted that he’s got his number ten but I want him to continue to earn it.”
Yesterday’s revelation means it’s unlikely Gordon will be making the move to Tyneside this summer. Greg O’Keeffe of The Athletic tweeted: “Heard Lampard made it abundantly clear that while he accepts the current tight situation at #EFC – he considered selling Gordon ‘unacceptable’.”
Newcastle are still looking to bolster their front line and have been scouring the world for players that fit their needs and will work with Financial Fair Play rules.
It is claimed the Magpies are still monitoring Moussa Diaby with a view to signing the French winger from Bayer Leverkusen.