Anthony Gordon was excellent once again as Newcastle United advanced to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.
Newcastle beat Brentford 3-1 at St James’ Park, with Eddie Howe’s players putting in a dominant performance.
There was some beautiful football on show, with Sandro Tonali shining as Newcastle’s deepest midfielder.
While Tonali will rightly hog the headlines, Anthony Gordon also deserves praise for an outstanding performance. He got himself an assist, setting up Tonali’s second goal of the night from a corner.
The 23-year-old was dangerous all evening, while his ability to receive the ball in tight areas and drift inside was a real asset. Gordon played very well, and would have got himself a goal or maybe another assist on a different night.
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Mads Roerslev of Brentford during the Carabao Cup Quarter Final ma...
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Bruno Guimaraes shows his admiration for Anthony Gordon
Gordon ran himself into the ground, before being substituted in the 77th minute in place of Miguel Almiron.
When the number 10 went up, Gordon was about to take a corner. As he realised he was being taken off, the England international began to walk along the touchline in front of the Gallowgate End.
As the crowd showed their appreciation for Gordon, Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes did the same.
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With the pair just yards away from each other as Bruno went to take the corner, the Brazilian midfielder bowed at Gordon and waved his hands. It was as if he was saying ‘we are not worthy’.
The 27-year-old showed his appreciation, as Gordon’s night came to an end.
Newcastle were able to rest key players
Eddie Howe was able to take Gordon off with more than 10 minutes remaining as his side were in such a comfortable position.
The score was 3-0 at the time, which meant the Newcastle United manager could rest some of his most important players ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Ipswich Town.
Two games in a row, Newcastle have been in such a commanding position that they have been able to give important players a rest. That is absolutely pivotal amid this busy run of fixtures.
Neither Alexander Isak or Gordon have completed the full 90 minutes in Newcastle’s previous two games, which is good. The additional bit of rest should mean they are ready to start again at the weekend in what will be a tricky game at Portman Road.
This is an intense period, and Howe needs to manage his players correctly. He has been able to do that in the past two games, with his key players getting the job done early.
Hopefully we see the same on Saturday.
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