Gordon: I thought I was going to have to leave Newcastle

ANTHONY Gordon has admitted that he feared the PSR rule book would drive him out of Newcastle United last summer - insisting a move to Liverpool at one stage looked on the cards.

- By LEE RYDER

The winger has opened up on the potential transfer in real depth, including how he had to get his head around the collapse of the deal and how it has given him insight into Alexander Isak’s situation.

In a no-holds-barred interview, Gordon wanted to fans back home to know:

■He is fully committed to Newcastle but could have been sold to Liverpool for PSR reasons

■That the Isak transfer storm has put strain on the squad in the Far East

■Why he feels sorry for Isak but there IS a way back for him at United despite Liverpool links

■How his first summer break in years can help him bring back his best form

The 24-year-old was at the centre of the 2024 PSR storm at St James’ Park with a move to his hometown club not materialising.

Instead, his close pal Elliot Anderson was sold to Nottingham Forest, while Yankuba Minteh went to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Gordon got his head down and focused on Newcastle, enjoying a rich run of mid-season form before missing out on the Carabao Cup final to suspension due to a red card against Brighton in the FA Cup.

This summer has resulted in a different Liverpool transfer saga internally on Tyneside, with Alexander Isak’s head seemingly turned by the prospect of a switch to Anfield.

The uncertainty is not lost on Gordon, but he admitted his relief at not being caught up in intense transfer speculation.

Speaking from Seoul, Gordon told The Journal: “What I can say, is that it’s been an absolute pleasure to be out of the transfer speculation for a summer! It’s the first time in about three years. It's been so easy, so mentally refreshing.”