Eddie Howe’s revealing comments on the Anthony Gordon debate should have the Newcastle United forward on alert.
Gordon has been a major talking point amongst Newcastle United fans in recent weeks.
The England international has been on fine form in the Champions League but continues to labour in domestic competition, which has caused frustration among Toon fans online.
In many ways, Gordon’s poor Premier League form for Newcastle sums this team up right now. Seemingly able to step things up for the big games, they tend to let the so-called lesser games pass them by.
Howe was asked about his decision to replace Gordon at half-time against West Ham on Sunday, and his answer summed up the frustration of Newcastle fans in the process.
Anthony Gordon puts his hands on his head during West Ham vs Newcastle United in the Premier League.
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Eddie Howe says Anthony Gordon needs to be more consistent
The question also included Howe’s decision to replace Nick Woltemade at the break at the London Stadium
While the Newcastle United manager hinted that was down to fatigue rather than his performance, he did not do so with Gordon.
In fact, Howe even admitted that Gordon just isn’t replicating what he’s done on the European stage in the Premier League.
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“With Anthony, look, he’s played very well in the Champions League,” said Howe.
“He hasn’t quite hit that form in the Premier League and I think that’s his challenge.”
Howe would go on to say that Gordon isn’t alone in that and while that is true, the difference in his output across competitions is surely the most notable right now.
“I’ve had many discussions with Anthony and will continue to.
“As you say, he’s a very honest player, there’s no lack of effort or commitment or desire to do well.
“I think he’s very driven to succeed, I’ve said that’s one of his biggest qualities.
“Sometimes things fall that way. A game of football is a game of football, regardless of the competition. He’s an outstanding player, but of course we need more from everybody in the Premier League, it’s not just Anthony.”
The ‘total luxury’ that should be putting pressure on Anthony Gordon
Left wing is arguably one of the few positions in which the Newcastle United squad boasts impressive depth.
Indeed, Harvey Barnes actually kept Gordon out of the team from the Carabao Cup final onwards towards the end of last season.
Jose Mourinho thinks having Barnes on the bench is a “total luxury” for Newcastle United and it may now be time to act on that.
It’s unfair to attribute Newcastle’s wider struggles to Gordon alone. Still, it does seem strange to consistently overlook a player as good as Barnes amid his teammate’s struggles.
Howe has the tools to send Gordon a message by dropping him for Barnes. Whether he does or not will tell supporters just how serious he is about Gordon’s frustratingly inconsistent form.