There have been a lot of square pegs in round holes at Newcastle United this season, but that changed against Liverpool.
Newcastle drew 3-3 with Liverpool, on a night that saw Eddie Howe’s players stand up and deliver the type of performance that fans have been expecting.
In truth, Newcastle deserved to beat Liverpool on Wednesday night. The Magpies had enough chances, while two of the three goals they conceded were very cheap. Meanwhile, Newcastle were on the end of some terrible refereeing decisions.
But despite the fury at the officials, there are so many positives Newcastle can take from their draw with the Premier League leaders.
Newcastle United star proved a point to Eddie Howe
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 2-1 during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and L...
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
One of the biggest positives was the performance from Anthony Gordon. He started on the left of attack, having been on the right and then up front against Crystal Palace.
A lot has been made about the 23-year-old’s position in the team. Eddie Howe said Gordon will play where is best for the team rather than himself, praising the winger’s attitude when asked to operate in different roles.
He was asked to play in his favourite position on Wednesday night, and Gordon proved he should play there all the time.
While Joelinton can do a job out there and Harvey Barnes has unique qualities, none of them compare to Anthony Gordon. The £40million man was at his best against Liverpool, as he took on the team he almost joined over the summer.
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His commitment and work ethic was outstanding all night, as he pressed high up the pitch. Off the ball, he was excellent, which has not always been the case this season.
Gordon delivered on the ball too. He got his third goal of the season, coming in from the left onto his right foot to give Newcastle a 2-1 lead.
Anthony Gordon made a point with his celebration vs Liverpool
It was a great goal by Newcastle, and Gordon made sure to make the most of his celebration.
There has been a lot of noise and speculation surrounding Gordon since the summer. The Euros, the Liverpool transfer saga, the new contract, his form for Newcastle – a lot has been going on for a young man.
Gordon has struggled for Newcastle, unable to show the consistency that he provided last season. And given the fact that the Magpies were against Liverpool on Wednesday night, the noise surrounding Gordon only got louder.
But he silenced his critics with his goal – and with his celebration.
After finding the net, Gordon appeared to make a point about everything that has been said about him as of late. He mocked all the talk, as he celebrated what will hopefully be a defining moment in his season.
During the 2023/24 campaign, Gordon was arguably Newcastle’s best player. We need him back at that level this season, and his display against Liverpool hinted that the best is on the way.
Play him on the left wing and Gordon will do the rest.
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