Anthony Elanga’s stop-start Newcastle United career continued against Spurs on Tuesday night.
The 23-year-old looked like he had turned a corner during Newcastle United’s win over Everton, getting his first assist for the club when he set up Nick Woltemade.
Eddie Howe praised Anthony Elanga for his performance, insisting that the winger could now go from strength to strength.
What came next was a return to the Newcastle United bench and a cameo that left Toon fans frustrated.
Has Newcastle 2-2 Tottenham made you feel any differently about Aaron Ramsdale?👀
Anthony Elanga made no attempt to stop Cristian Romero
Cristian Romero’s equaliser in Newcastle United’s draw with Spurs was infuriating and avoidable.
Aaron Ramsdale has been criticised for his role in the goal, reacting slowly as the centre-back’s overhead kick found its way into his net.
However, Anthony Elanga also cannot be looked upon favourably for his role in the goal.
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As the ball looped high into the air, Romero was the only player on the pitch interested in engaging. Having initially been knocked to the floor, he swiftly got to his feet and decided he was attempting the spectacular.
All the while, Elanga watches him do it as the closest Newcastle United player. There is no attempt to get between man and ball or block the shot from the summer signing.
This Newcastle United squad is built on a never say die attitude. Eddie Howe’s players put their bodies on the line for the badge, but Elanga did not do that on Tuesday night.
He needs to buy into what makes this Newcastle United team special. If not, he may never truly succeed in black and white.
Another goal conceded in stoppage time, what is going on? 😡
That’s four points lost from goals conceded in stoppage time.
Eddie Howe’s verdict on Tottenham Hotspur’s late equaliser
After the game, Eddie Howe gave his honest feelings on the 95th minute equaliser to BBC Sport.
“Ultimately, we haven’t defended a corner well enough,” he said.
“That comes from not doing our jobs individually. Not getting a really strong first contact on that first ball that comes into the box. It’s a painful way to end the game.”