Anthony Gordon says he has taken a ‘massive step’ after completing £45m move to Newcastle 

Anthony Gordon says he has taken a “huge step” after completing his £40m move to Newcastle from Everton but insists he never meant to disrespect his boyhood club and hopes his sale can help them stay in the Premier League.

The striker was confirmed as a Newcastle player on Sunday with teammate Harrison Ashby, 21, the West Ham right-back, set to follow him through the gate in a £3m deal, while Jonjo Shelvey is in talks. about a permanent move to Nottingham Forest.

And Gordon has addressed the circumstances surrounding his departure from Goodison Park, after missing training and submitting a transfer request last week.

Newcastle have completed the signing of Anthony Gordon from Everton in a £40m deal

The 21-year-old says it was a ‘difficult’ week as he wished Everton the best for the rest of the season.

“It was a very difficult decision and it has been a very hard week for me,” he said. I’ve been at Everton for my entire football career so far, so it’s been tough, but this is an opportunity I really couldn’t pass up.

“I didn’t mean to disrespect or offend anyone at Everton, and I hope they know that and can reinvest the money now and stay in the Premier League.” They got a lot of money for me. I never imagined it or wanted it to be like this, that’s why it has been such a hard week.

Gordon added: “Since I found out about the interest, I was always convinced that Newcastle was for me. I think the fans and the city really suit me as a person, the way the team is playing under the manager in this At the moment it really suits me, and it seems that the club is heading in the right direction.

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe doesn’t want to lose Jonjo Shelvey without a replacement

‘I feel like it’s a big step. People haven’t seen what I’m capable of yet. I think that with the manager and the way the club is going, I can really excel here.

Meanwhile, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe does not want to lose Shelvey without a replacement being lined up.

The player is also reluctant to leave St James’ Park but, with six months left on his contract, the assurance of a longer deal will be attractive. Talks opened with Forest over the weekend and the midfielder is likely to leave on a permanent contract.