'That Is Brutal': Ex-Ref Boss Stunned by Anthony Elanga Tackle in Newcastle's Valencia Clash

Anthony Elanga avoided serious injury after a high, forceful tackle during Newcastle United's 2-1 pre-season win over Valencia, with former referees' chief Howard Webb reportedly left saying, 'That is brutal', after viewing footage of the challenge.

The Sweden international was stretchered from the pitch after Valencia captain José Gayà launched into the tackle during the friendly at the Mestalla on 8 August. The incident immediately prompted concern among Newcastle players and staff, and Gayà was shown a straight red card.

Elanga Left in Obvious Pain

The incident occurred shortly before half-time, with Elanga attempting to advance for Newcastle when Gayà lunged towards him. The Valencia defender made contact around the Newcastle winger's shin, leaving Elanga on the ground for a couple of minutes.

Players from both sides quickly surrounded the incident, and tempers flared near the touchline. A confrontation involving players of both teams followed. The referee took little time to act, producing a straight red card for Gayà.

Elanga was eventually carried from the pitch on a stretcher, raising fears that Newcastle could have lost one of their major summer signings before the new season had even begun. The winger had only recently joined Newcastle and was expected to play an important role under new head coach Matthias Jaissle.

Webb Reacts: 'That Is Brutal'

The footage prompted strong reactions from former officials, with ex-refereeing chief Howard Webb among those who examined the challenge.

The incident stood out because it occurred during a friendly pre-season game, when neither side had competitive points at stake.

The severity of the tackle made the decision to issue a red card relatively straightforward. The challenge was high and the force with which Gayà went into it left Elanga exposed to a potentially significant lower-leg injury.

The reaction added to wider concern in football over reckless tackles, particularly during matches intended to prepare players for the competitive season.

Newcastle Handed Positive Injury Update

Newcastle were relieved to learn that Elanga did not suffer any serious injury. Jaissle admitted afterwards that he had been concerned by what he saw but said the medical team was providing encouraging indications that the injury was not serious.

'It was a shocking challenge, that's right. I was in fear, definitely,' Jaissle said. 'But now I'm more relaxed because the medical department are almost showing green lights that it's nothing serious.'

The injury report said Elanga suffered a shin contusion and could return in a week or two, which is far from a fracture or major ligament issue as the video shows.

Newcastle Come From Behind To Win

The incident overshadowed what was otherwise an encouraging first match for Jaissle. Newcastle fell behind inside four minutes when Valencia midfielder Filip Ugrinic produced a long-range finish to put the hosts ahead.

The Premier League side responded after the interval, with Yoane Wissa scoring twice to complete a 2-1 comeback. The victory gave Jaissle a winning start following his appointment as Eddie Howe's successor, although the manager was left with greater concerns about Elanga than the result itself.

Elanga's Role in Jaissle's Plans

Elanga arrived at St James' Park as a major addition to Newcastle's attacking options, bringing pace and direct running to the side. His ability to stretch defences was expected to be particularly important as Jaissle begins reshaping the team.

The early medical assessment suggested the worst fears would not be realised. Reuters reported that Jaissle was reassured by the club's medical department and believed Elanga could return relatively quickly.

The incident underlined that even pre-season fixtures can carry significant risk. For Newcastle, the priority after the final whistle was not the 2-1 scoreline, but the relief that Elanga appeared to have avoided a potentially season-defining injury.