Eddie Howe explains why he took Anthony Gordon off against Brentford

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Eddie Howe brought Anthony Gordon on at half time against Brentford – then took him off before the final whistle.

Gordon was removed from the game in stoppage time, with the Newcastle winger replaced by Matt Ritchie in the closing stages.

It was a strange decision, and one that did not go down well with the 22-year-old. He was not pleased when his number went up, with Howe then explaining the decision as Ritchie went on in his place.

The substitution made little to no difference, with Newcastle holding on to win 2-1. It was a huge victory away from home, inspired by the combination of Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.

Howe’s tactical change at half time made the difference, which included Gordon coming on for Jacob Murphy. But now the Toon boss has had to explain why the £45million signing did not finish the game on the pitch.

Eddie Howe believed Anthony Gordon was injured

After the game, Howe spoke to BBC Sport. He was asked why he decided to take Gordon off in stoppage time.

“From my side, there was 30 seconds left and he [Gordon] was down holding his ankle so I put an experienced player on the pitch,” he said.

“It is no reflection on his time on the pitch.”

Howe then spoke to the Chronicle, and admitted that Gordon needs to be able to control his emotions.

“I’ve got no problem,” he said.

“Anthony is passionate boy. He wants to do well, but there was seconds left on the clock and we wanted to get Matty on because Anthony was holding his ankle.

“He just needs to control his emotions in that moment, but there are no problems.”

Howe taking no chances

Gordon was not happy when he was taken off, but Howe was refusing to take any chances. He spoke to him immediately afterwards, and was then seen with his arm around him as the players thanked the supporters following the full time whistle.

It was a mixed 45 minutes from the Scouser. He battled hard like he always does, but gave the ball away cheaply on a couple of occasions when Brentford were pushing for an equaliser.

Howe put all sentiment to one side when he took Gordon off, and will feel his decision was justified with Newcastle holding on for victory.

The reaction from Gordon was disappointing, but understandable given the fact he had only come on at half time. But he will learn from this situation, and the most important thing is the three points.