Anthony Gordon has long looked like one of the most obvious Liverpool targets on paper, and plenty of supporters would still welcome that move.
He is quick, direct and aggressive, and Gordon has been ‘unbelievable’ for Newcastle during a spell which has only strengthened the feeling that he could thrive at Anfield.
Liverpool also have a clear long-term question to answer out wide, especially with changes expected in the forward line over the next window. That is why Gordon has been named as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, even if that conversation still divides opinion.
Amid talk of a move, Ally McCoist does not seem worried about Gordon’s speed, work-rate or suitability for big games. His concern is simpler and sharper than that, because he is not convinced Gordon’s overall natural ability to run in behind teams will be effective in a side like Arne Slot’s, who often face low blocks.
Which players should Liverpool target to replace Mohamed Salah this summer? 🤔
A seven-man shortlist has already been reported:
Desire Doue
Bradley Barcola
Nico Williams
Yan Diomande
Anthony Gordon
Jarrod Bowen
Michael Olise
Mohamed Salah warms up ahead of Liverpool's Premier League match against West Ham United at the London Stadium
Credit: Izzy Poles/AMA/Getty Images
Anthony Gordon struggles against low blocks
Speaking to TNT Sport, he said: “I like Anthony Gordon. I’m not sure his overall quality would entice Liverpool.”
He then explained the part of Gordon’s game may not be suited to the Reds: “I think Anthony Gordon who, his pace is suited to play against the higher line teams that have the ball.” McCoist even used Liverpool as the example, which makes the criticism more interesting because he clearly sees a tactical fit.
A fair point given that the Merseyside outfit face plenty of sides who don’t leave room behind them. His acceleration, willingness to run in behind and ability to drive a team up the pitch are all qualities that suit the kind of wide forward Anfield tends to appreciate, but he may not get the space to show off his true talent in Slot’s side.
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Even so, Liverpool do not spend major money just to find a good fit for certain games. If the Englishman arrives, he would need to be viewed as a player capable of deciding the biggest matches consistently, producing elite numbers and carrying serious attacking weight over a full season.
That is where McCoist’s argument becomes uncomfortable for those who want this move, because it asks whether the Newcastle star is merely a very good option or a truly top-class one.
For that reason, Gordon still feels like a conversation worth having rather than a transfer Liverpool should rush into. McCoist’s verdict cuts through the noise neatly, and his one concern is whether the winger has enough top-end quality to justify becoming part of Liverpool’s next front three.
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