Premier League star responds to Newcastle United and Chelsea bids amid ‘desperate’ claim

Newcastle United transfer target Anthony Gordon has revealed he was never ‘desperate’ to leave Everton during the summer transfer window.

The England Under-21 star played a lead role in helping the Toffees fight a successful battle against a first-ever relegation from the Premier League last season.

Although Gordon’s statistics show he provided just four goals and three assists in 40 appearances in all competitions, the youngster came to the fore during the final weeks of an eventful campaign.

His form led to links to the likes of Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle, with all three clubs reportedly lodging unsuccessful offers with their Premier League rivals.

The speculation continued until the final hours of the summer transfer window - but Gordon remained on Merseyside and has made a promising start to the new season.

Featuring across the Toffees frontline, Gordon found the net in draws against Brentford and Leeds United and remains an integral part of Frank Lampard’s side.

But with speculation over his long-term future and a possible contract continuing to dominate the headlines, Gordon opened up on what could lie ahead in a recent interview.

Speaking of the speculation, he said: “That’s part and parcel of football.

“When you’re doing well there’s always going to be speculation. But the place is so good that it’s never been a case of being desperate to leave Everton.

“We’re in a completely different place to last year. It’s class, the morale is unbelievable and I couldn’t speak highly enough of it. We’ve made really good signings; people and players. There’s just a feel-good (atmosphere) around the place.

“I like playing with pressure. I feel I thrive on it. If I want to be a top player, I have to do that regardless. I feel I’ve handled it well but I can still score more goals and stuff.”