Game of Numbers #35 – Anthony Gordon’s embodiment of the Newcastle way

Newcastle United have been defined in the Eddie Howe era by energy and intensity, including an all-out press, and fervid counter attacking immediately upon regaining possession. Anthony Gordon perfectly embodies the Newcastle way under Eddie Howe, and has been one of the surprise stars of the 2023-24 season. Many scoffed at Chelsea's interest in the former Everton youngster at the start of last season, particularly the price tag bestowed upon him. But Gordon is proving to be a priceless acquisition for the Magpies this season, bringing his tireless tenacity to the table every game. Here is Game of Numbers #35.

Canadian Premier League Scouting Database – Massimo Ferrin

One of the HFX names that's stood out since the start of the season has been Massimo Ferrin, coming out of Patrice Gheisar's League 1 Ontario winning team in Vaughan. He doesn't necessarily have the high number of goals or assists to show for what he's accomplished this season, but Massimo Ferrin should definitely be proud of a great first-season so far in the Canadian Premier League. Here is why the 24-year-old is one to keep an eye on in Canadian football.

Canadian Premier League Scouting Database – Aidan Daniels

Despite his versatility to play across the pitch, the former TFC academy product started just 16 matches in 2022. But flashes of brilliance were there for all to see, constantly taking the game to the opposition through his dynamic dribbling and tactical intelligence. This season, Patrice Gheisar has fully trusted Daniels to be the star player in his attack, ensuring that he can give the ball-playing wizard a free role off the right of his 4-2-3-1. This has allowed Daniels to flourish, where he's been one of the undeniable stars of the season in 2023. Here is what makes the 24-year-old one of the top prospects coming out of the Canadian Premier League this season.

Canadian Premier League Scouting Database – Ayman Sellouf

One of the most impressive players this season has been Dutchman Ayman Sellouf, entering the B.C. scene from Jong FC Utrecht, as the dynamic dribbling equivalent to Marco Bustos. Sellouf has completely lived up to his promise so far in 2023, already scoring more than Bustos managed in 2022, and acting as arguably the best player in the league to start the campaign. We analyze Ayman Sellouf's potential for greatness this season and beyond, making the case for why this could be a short-lived stint inside Canada's top flight.

Dribbling masterclass ft. Kane Ritchie-Hosler

Kane Ritchie-Hosler is a 20-year-old Englishman, who played this season in Scotland's third tier, on loan from Rangers B. His daring intensity to constantly take players on is reminiscent of youthful energy that can separate the 20-year-old from someone ten years older. However, not only does Ritchie-Hosler dazzle when you give him the ball, he excels when making optimal decisions both on and off the ball. He knows when to burst forward, when to turn, and when to play the simpler, safer options available. This is the key to any player existing within Ritchie-Hosler's 'dynamic dribbling' mold.

Game of Numbers #11 – How to dribble like Jude Bellingham

Without Jude Bellingham, where would Borussia Dortmund be right now? They've been missing Marco Reus, Mats Hummels hasn't been up to pace (literally), and all the newboys haven't quite hit the ground running as expected (perhaps Salih Özcan aside). This has meant that Jude Bellingham has needed to carry the weight of the team on his shoulders, getting on the ball at every turn to work his magic.

Explaining the Dynamic Dribbler – Player Role Analysis

Throughout this series, we've endeavoured to avoid player types signified by a single set of actions and statistics. The 'Dynamic Dribbler' is one of the rare exceptions, as the art of 'dribbling' is an essential way for wingers to enact magic on the pitch, and become the magic wand sorcerers that we all know they can be. Here is our analysis of the 'Dynamic Dribbler', and their importance on the pitch.