Anthony Gordon caused controversy by hitting out at Sunderland following the Tyne-Wear derby defeat.
Kevin Phillips has reminded Anthony Gordon that Newcastle United lost two Tyne-Wear derbies this season.
Responding to the winger’s controversial comments, the 52-year-old also highlighted how he failed to turn up on both occasions against Sunderland. Gordon caused a stir when he claimed the Black Cats are “not a good team” just moments after the final whistle.
Critics labelled his interview as sour grapes - with others believing the reaction to be honest and refreshing unlike a footballer’s usual post-match debrief. Newcastle fans were left seething as Eddie Howe’s men capitulated to lose 2-1 at St James’ Park to their bitter rivals.
What Anthony Gordon said
“Probably worse (than the December defeat) because the other one was away (from home),” he told NUFC TV when asked which derby defeat feels worse. “I think the way we lost the game, going ahead 1-0… I thought they were really poor.
“We let them into the game and gave them the win. The frustrating thing is, in my opinion, they’re not a very good team compared to us. We shouldn’t lose to them. Away from home, it’s more difficult because they have their fans, an atmosphere and a bit more pressure but, at home, we should not lose that game - not with the first half we had.
“We haven’t been good enough starting second halves and it’s an ongoing problem. Football’s always like that. The most important thing, always, is the next game. It’s been a relentless run of fixtures but that’s going to take a long time to get over for us and the fans because nothing can resurrect that.”
Kevin Phillips slams Anthony Gordon
Black Cats legend Phillips - who scored 130 goals in red-and-white stripes - tore into Gordon’s remarks. He told talkSPORT: “Not only (did they) lose the derby, but (they) lost two derbies this season. Let's get that right.
“Anthony Gordon is a fantastic player but he didn't turn up in the first game and he didn't pretty much turn up in the second game apart from the goal. So it's a big statement coming out on the back of a defeat.
“I would just keep my head down, keep quiet and crack on with my work. Listen, it was a fantastic performance from Sunderland. An incredible performance, incredible win. I know a lot of Sunderland fans. I watched it in the area and they were very nervous.
“They didn't really fancy their chances of winning the game. They felt they could get a draw, but to go there and perform the way they did after the first 10 minutes (was excellent).
“I get annoyed when I listen to a lot of Newcastle fans say (that in the) first half they dominated. They didn't. For the first 10 minutes, they were the better team but, after that, Sunderland matched them, was far superior in the second half and deserved to win the game. It’s as simple as that.”
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