Eddie Howe was delighted with Anthony Gordon’s performance against Arsenal on Saturday, but not just because of the Newcastle United winger’s incredible assist.
The 23-year-old set up Newcastle United’s winner against Arsenal, as Eddie Howe’s side beat the Gunners 1-0 at St James’ Park.
Alexander Isak scored the only goal of the game with a beautiful header, which was made possible by a glorious first time cross from Anthony Gordon.
It was a stunning ball into the box. Tino Livramento compared Gordon to David Beckham after the game, with the Toon winger’s pinpoint cross helping his side pick up a vital three points.
Why Eddie Howe loved Anthony Gordon’s performance against Arsenal
It was an excellent performance from Gordon, who was deployed on the right wing rather than the left.
The England international prefers to play off of the left, but had no issues on the opposite side of the pitch against Arsenal.
Eddie Howe was delighted with Gordon’s performance, and has told Newcastle’s official website that his favourite thing about the £40million man’s display was his defending, rather than his glorious assist.
“His attitude to playing on the right was really good,” he said.
“He was energetic. I thought the standout thing for me was his defending, which probably won’t be the first thought in his head. But I thought his effort to help Tino on the sides was huge. He was regularly back to double up, which might go unnoticed by a lot of people, but certainly not the coaches. Full credit to him for that.
“But he was also a threat going the other way. Going on the outside, a couple of good runs. The goal was probably the highlight for him. I thought it was an outstanding ball.
“I was really pleased with his performance.”
Newcastle’s wingers have a crucial role
When you have a player like Gordon in your team, you want him to have an impact in the final third. You need him to score goals and you need him to provide assists.
He did exactly that on Saturday, and it was a key reason in Newcastle beating Arsenal 1-0.
However, Howe feels that Gordon’s work off the ball was just as important. He was outstanding defensively against Arsenal, helping Tino Livramento keep Gabriel Martinelli at bay. The Arsenal winger barely had a sniff, as he was constantly having to face two Toon players whenever he got the ball.
It was the same on the opposite flank. Lewis Hall was helped by Joelinton and Joe Willock, as they nullified Arsenal’s most influential player in Bukayo Saka.
That work rate and pressing off the ball is vital when it comes to being a Newcastle United winger. It is so often the foundation for success, and Howe was delighted with the way Gordon handled his defensive duties against Arsenal.
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