Chris Sutton has named the Newcastle United he absolutely loves to watch following the Champions League draw with Bayer Leverkusen.
The Magpies added another point to their Champions League tally by drawing with Bayer Leverkusen, but there is a feeling that it could have been three.
Newcastle conceded late again to draw 2-2, having initially come from behind after going a goal down.
Another Newcastle United player questioning the team’s mentality. This is getting worrying, isn’t it? 👀
The comeback was inspired by Anthony Gordon, who scored and got an assist at the BayArena. He continued his remarkable Champions League form, boasting seven goal contributions in total. To put that tally into context, only Kylian Mbappe (9) has got more.
Eddie Howe will want more from Anthony Gordon at Newcastle United
Gordon is flying in the Champions League, but it has often been a different story in the Premier League. Domestically, he only has two goals to his name, both of which have been penalties.
That has been a source of frustration for Toon fans, and Chris Sutton has admitted on BBC Match Of The Day that Eddie Howe will be demanding more from the England international.
“That’s a surprise, to see the contrast [from Champions League to Premier League],” he said.
“He’s been so effective in the Champions League. I love watching Anthony Gordon when he drives both ways. He sits full-backs up. We know he wants to come inside and get shots off.
How would you rate Anthony Gordon’s current form out of 10? Feels like he’s on his way back 😍
Another big showing from the England star!
“He’s playing with such freedom, getting to the byline and getting crosses in. He’s a real threat.
“If you ask Eddie Howe, he’ll say can you do more of that in the Premier League.”
It feels like Anthony Gordon is turning the corner this season
The 2025/26 campaign has been difficult for Gordon. It started with him playing up front amid Alexander Isak going on strike, and it was swiftly followed by that red card against Liverpool.
That moment derailed the 24-year-old, who has been massively underwhelming in the Premier League. In contrast, he has been electric in Europe.
However, there is a feeling now that things are changing. Gordon’s cameo against Tottenham Hotspur was impressive, while he was also excellent in the win over Burnley.
After that game, Howe called Gordon Newcastle’s best player, and he took that confidence into Wednesday night’s Champions League clash in Germany. It resulted in another player of the match performance.
Gordon is finding the consistency that has been missing from his game, and he will be eager to continue this trajectory in the Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland on Sunday.
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