‘A very, very good player’ – Howe hails Semenyo ahead of City and Newcastle Carabao clash

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has praised Manchester City’s signing of Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo, calling him a “very, very good player” ahead of the two sides’ Carabao Cup semi-final meeting.

Semenyo joined City in a £64m move from AFC Bournemouth, signing a five-and-a-half-year contract that underlined Pep Guardiola’s belief in the 25-year-old. The Ghana international wasted little time making an impression, marking his debut with a goal and an assist as City demolished Exeter City 10-1 in the FA Cup, a performance that earned him the Man of the Match award.

Speaking to reporters on Monday before Tuesday night’s first-leg clash at St James’ Park, Howe admitted his admiration for the forward, whose rise has been one of the stories of the season.

“Antoine’s had an incredible season,” Howe said. “I’m a big admirer of him, and he scored on his debut, so fair play to him. I think Man City have signed a very, very good player.”

Semenyo has now scored 11 goals in all competitions this season, form that has quickly justified City’s heavy investment. A recent rule change also means the former Bournemouth man is eligible to feature in the Carabao Cup, adding another attacking option to Guardiola’s squad.

As City prepare to visit St James’ Park, Semenyo’s presence adds extra intrigue to a semi-final already rich in quality and one that could offer the Ghanaian another opportunity to underline why he is being talked about in such glowing terms.