Gordon’s Goal-Scoring Prowess Praised as Howe Encourages Selfishness
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has lauded the form of striker Anthony Gordon, urging the 24-year-old England international to maintain his aggressive, goal-oriented approach, particularly after his stellar performance in the Champions League play-off against Qarabag. Gordon netted an impressive four goals in the first leg of their 6-1 victory in Baku, bringing his Champions League tally for the season to a remarkable 10, a testament to his effective deployment as a central frontman.
His scoring spree in Baku included a second penalty, which he converted himself despite captain Kieran Trippier’s suggestion that record signing Nick Woltemade be given the opportunity. This incident drew parallels to a similar situation in September 1999, when Alan Shearer allowed young Paul Robinson to take a penalty during an 8-0 Premier League demolition of Sheffield Wednesday.
When questioned about Gordon’s perceived selfishness, Howe expressed his approval. “There were really big positives to take from that incident,” Howe stated. “Moments like that get blown out of all proportion; it was a very minor issue. It was great from Anthony that he’s got that strong enough resolve that he wants to score in every moment – and you’d want that from any player – so I’ve got no issue with him.”
Howe also defended Trippier’s actions, highlighting the captain’s team-first mentality. “I’ve got no issue with Kieran also, trying to think of the team and trying to lead in his way and be the aspiring leader that he is in every moment. I actually thought it was a real positive on all sides. The good thing is we scored the penalty, so that in itself is another positive. I think it showed that all the players care and we want to do well.”
Trippier’s intervention was reportedly aimed at providing record £69 million signing Woltemade with a chance to break his goal drought. Woltemade had scored in the previous week’s 3-1 FA Cup fourth-round win against Aston Villa, ending a 14-game run without a goal.
Woltemade’s Tactical Acumen and Adaptability
The 24-year-old German striker has recently been operating in a midfield role, a transition that Howe believes Woltemade has handled with impressive ease, much like his Brazilian teammate Joelinton before him. Howe commended Woltemade’s intelligence and adaptability. “Tactically, he’s a very, very intelligent player,” Howe remarked. “He’s obviously been well-educated at his former clubs, so he took to it really quickly, and full compliment to him for doing that.”
Woltemade’s versatility in midfield will face a stern test when Newcastle faces Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday evening. The Magpies are seeking their first win at City’s home ground and their first league victory there since September 2000, having lost their last 16 visits.
When asked if Woltemade could perform in a midfield capacity against Pep Guardiola’s formidable side, Howe expressed cautious optimism. “We will see,” he said. “From what I’ve seen in training and the way that he’s taken to the work that we’ve done with him, I’d say yes. Of course, doing that in one environment is different to doing it on a matchday, with the pressure of the game and everything that entails. But I wouldn’t play him there if I didn’t think he could do it.”
Injury Updates and Squad Considerations
However, Newcastle’s attacking options could be boosted by the potential return of Yoane Wissa, who sustained a “nasty knock in training.” Howe speculated that the Congolese striker might be available for the Qarabag return leg. Wissa’s absence, however, will be felt in the upcoming clash against City.
The Magpies will also be without Bruno Guimaraes, who is sidelined for two months with a hamstring injury. Howe provided further injury updates on Tino Livramento, Sven Botman, and Lewis Miley.
“Tino is making progress, but I don’t think we’ll shave too much time off the early March timeframe he has,” Howe stated regarding Livramento. “Hopefully, better news for Sven Botman; hopefully, he can be in and around this game. Miley still has got a bit to go.”
