This weekend should mark the return of Anthony Gordon to the Newcastle United side after he missed the previous two Premier League outings through injury. The winger has faced scrutiny, with some members of the Toon Army believing it could be a tactic to engineer a move away.
In what could be the 25-year-old’s final weeks in a black-and-white shirt, he will be hoping to at least give the loyal supporters something memorable on his way out, starting this weekend against Brighton.
With a chance to help turn the team’s fortunes around, as they are yet to confirm their league status for 2026/27, one last hurrah would not go amiss.
Anthony Gordon set to return against Brighton
When the Englishman broke through at Everton, he was an exciting young talent full of belief in his ability. His first goal came in a defeat against Brighton, although it was not the only one of the game, as he finished with a brace.
At the time, Toffees manager and former Newcastle boss Rafael Benítez was under severe pressure and would be sacked just a few weeks later. After that game, he said: “The most important thing for me is to have players on the pitch who want to be there and want to fight for the club.”
Those words perhaps best encapsulate exactly what the winger brings to the pitch. His never-say-die attitude has served him well, making him one of the standout players at St James’ Park since his arrival.
It was a truly memorable display from Gordon, and the moment he really arrived onto the scene. Magpies supporters will hope the winger can channel that performance when he meets the opposition once again.
The forward was rated 8/10 by the Liverpool Echo. The outlet wrote: “Everton’s most lively player by far. His creativity was a constant thorn in the side of the Brighton defence and he fully deserved both of the goals he got, even if the first needed a big deflection.”
The idea of him downing tools over the last few weeks feels unlike him, as his character has always shone through, even during spells without goals. That fire in his belly, which has defined his rise, is needed again on Tyneside, starting this weekend.
Newcastle need a fired-up Gordon
It does feel like the end is approaching between player and club, and while the atmosphere has turned somewhat sour, there is hope it does not damage a strong bond.
Gordon has a point to prove in these final few matches for Eddie Howe’s side, and it will be interesting to see which path he follows.
Will he silence questions over his commitment to the badge, or will he be playing for a move elsewhere?
What is done is done, but it is now time to see what makes Gordon so unique in a Newcastle shirt before the summer window.
In other news, Don’t do it, gaffer: Eddie Howe faces big Newcastle United selection call vs Brighton.
