Anthony Gordon new contract could be season defining moment for Everton project
Anthony Gordon is set to sign a new long-term contract at Everton to finally put an end to speculation about his future at the club in January.
After the Toffees managed to stave off interest from Tottenham and Chelsea in the summer, many believed that they had completed a masterclass to boost their chances of survival.
But after just 11 goals in 15 Premier League games as a team this season, and with Gordon getting more bookings (7) than goals (3) and assists (1) combined, there were question marks about if it was still the right decision.
Throughout the season though Frank Lampard has been adamant that Gordon is still a key part of the future of Everton Football Club and despite losing his place in the team more recently, the player himself has insisted he’s happy.
Both parties have followed through with their commitment, and with The Telegraph reporting that a new deal is close to being finalized and agreed for a new long-term deal.
There had been suggestions that Gordon had his head turned by the transfer attention he received, but that is now likely to go away for a short while.
With no distractions to deal with for the second half of the season plus a month where football was on a break so he could rest, recover and refocus, this is potentially a season-defining moment for everyone at Everton.
Whether we want to admit it or not, there is a big relegation battle on the club’s hands in the second half of the campaign with just one point separating the team and the drop zone.
The attacking spark of Gordon mixed in with Richarlison last season was ultimately enough to save the team, and if he is unable to rediscover that form this year then there could be a problem.
But Lampard has every chance to make things right now by getting him back firing, and Gordon can get the fans that have questioned him back on side by proving his commitment and showing his ability once more.
It’s going to be tough, undoubtedly, but the decisions have been made now and it’s on Lampard and Gordon to get Everton up the table and where they belong.