In many ways, the performance Newcastle United put in against Manchester City this weekend was much more important than the result.
Indeed, after a display so poor at Fulham last weekend it was branded “awful” by club legend Alan Shearer, Newcastle had to respond against the Premier League champions.
While they could only claim a point off Pep Guardiola’s side, context is important. Eddie Howe’s team looked much more like their old selves at St James’ Park, with the intensity for which they are well known for appearing to have returned.
Joelinton was praised for his performance by pundit Joe Cole, while the Newcastle United manager was delighted with the performance of Anthony Gordon.
Gordon spoke of Howe’s post-match message and also made a revealing comment when talking to TNT Sports.
Anthony Gordon makes new Newcastle training ground reveal
The forward in fact shared how the squad were acting in training following the Fulham loss. According to Gordon, they were kicking each other at the training ground, such was their frustration about what happened at Fulham and their desire to improve.
He said at 2.42pm BST on 28/09/2024: “I could feel we would have that reaction based on the training we have done. We have had a training week where we were kicking each other and could see everyone wasn’t happy from the previous game, so I knew coming into this game we would be in a better place.”
Anthony Gordon is back in business for Newcastle
Gordon, who looks close to signing a new contract too, finally clicked into gear for Newcastle only days after his body language during the defeat at Craven Cottage was slammed.
Interestingly, those behind the scenes at the club reportedly saw this coming, believing the winger was building his way back up to full fitness following a difficult summer.
Luckily, they were proven right. Gordon looked back to his best against City and that was without playing in his preferred position.
With Everton to come next, his return to form has come at the best possible time. Mocked by their supporters last season, you get the feeling he’d love to score…
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