Alan Shearer was quick to praise a Newcastle United player for putting in the hard yards against Aston Villa despite unfortunate circumstances.
The Magpies’ first game of the season may not have been a win like fans were hoping for, but they will be happy to take a draw at a ground which usually spells trouble.
Newcastle United were held to a 0-0 draw against 10-man Aston Villa, but it could have been much more had chances been taken. Anthony Elanga had a great chance to open the scoring after just two minutes, while the likes of Harvey Barnes squandered multiple efforts despite working well to get into the shooting positions.
Bruno Guimaraes had mixed feelings after the Newcastle draw, stating that his side deserved more from the game.
While Eddie Howe prepares his side for another tough game against defending champions Liverpool, Alan Shearer has taken the time to praise Anthony Gordon, who is filling in at striker due to circumstances out of his control.
Anthony Gordon applauds the fans following a game between Aston Villa and Newcastle United.
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Alan Shearer praises Anthony Gordon for filling in for Alexander Isak
The biggest story to come out of Tyneside this summer is Alexander Isak’s desire to leave Newcastle, despite helping the club to Champions League qualification and their first domestic trophy for 70 years.
Isak is on strike from St James’ Park and has not made a single appearance for the Magpies since May. Gordon filled in for Isak against Villa, but was unable to offer the same qualities that the Sweden international does.
Still, that did not stop Shearer from praising the 24-year-old for his efforts.
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“I think, given everything that’s happened and is happening at Newcastle, I was impressed with the vast majority of their play. Obviously, they didn’t score. They created better chances; they looked fitter than Aston Villa. They look stronger. I thought their pressing was superb.
“Obviously, the biggest thing missing was the goal. I mean, Elanga, the way he created his 1v1. If that goes in, then what a league debut for him that would have been.
“Gordon is doing the very best he can in difficult circumstances. He’s not a centre forward, but he’s the best option they’ve got at the moment.”
Anthony Gordon could play as a striker more often for Newcastle United
With Isak likely not to be involved against Liverpool next Monday, Gordon is set to lead the line, hopefully with better end results.
Gordon is a natural winger and has been immense in the position during previous seasons, so fans will no doubt be keen to see him return to that position in the near future. Howe could opt to play William Osula at striker, but he clearly has more faith in Gordon, despite up front not being his natural position.
While some may have felt that Gordon would be tentative to play as a striker, it is a position he is more than happy to switch to for the time being.
Post-match, Gordon was asked about his position change.
“I really like it,” he said. “As my career progresses, I think I might end up more central.”
Fans are keen to see the Isak situation resolved, but Gordon is still happy to relish the new opportunity in the meantime.