Newcastle United were able to rely on key players in key moments against Manchester City on Saturday.
That has not often been the case this season, with Eddie Howe‘s star players struggling to play their best football.
However, that started to change on Saturday, as Newcastle drew 1-1 with Manchester City.
Nick Pope has been one of the Magpies’ most consistent performers, and he continued that trend at the weekend. He made an outstanding save late on to deny Bernardo Silva, and Pep Guardiola praised Pope after the game.
The 32-year-old was decisive at one end of the pitch, just like Anthony Gordon was at the other.
Anthony Gordon was key in Newcastle’s draw with Manchester City
It has been a really disappointing start to the season for Gordon. The 23-year-old has not looked like himself, while Gordon was criticised for his performance against Fulham.
On Saturday, he was back to his best. Gordon played up front and showcased the relentless energy that made him so popular last season. Eddie Howe was delighted with Gordon, who scored his second goal of the season from the penalty spot after being fouled by Ederson in the box.
It was great forward play by the 23-year-old, and he followed it up with a coolly converted penalty.
Nick Pope makes Anthony Gordon prediction
His performance against Man City could be a defining moment in Gordon’s season, and his teammate Pope is predicting him to now kick on.
Following Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City, Pope spoke to the Northern Echo and praised Gordon.
“He’s a top player for club and country,” he said.
“We love having him, he’s a massive asset for us and a threat.
“He looked sharp today, and he’ll be a big player for us this season.”
Next Premier League game is huge for Everton
Newcastle United’s next game is against Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup. It remains to be seen if Gordon will feature against the League Two side.
After that, the Magpies head to Goodison Park for what will likely be the final time to face Everton.
That is a big game for Gordon, given the fact Newcastle bought him from Everton for £40million in January 2023.
Gordon’s last return to Goodison Park did not go well. He was playing excellent football going into the game, but was on the receiving end of a 3-0 defeat. Gordon was mocked by the Everton fans, as Newcastle slumped to a rather worrying defeat.
Since leaving the Toffees, Gordon is yet to really excel against his former club. He will hope that changes on Saturday evening, when he could be asked to play up front yet again. That will depend on Alexander Isak’s fitness.
The 25-year-old missed the Manchester City game with a broken toe, and it is unclear when he will be fit to return. If he is not back in time to face Everton, it will be Gordon playing up front against his former club.
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