Anthony Gordon was unable to inspire Newcastle United to victory against Manchester United.
In the Magpies’ previous game against Chelsea, Anthony Gordon was spectacular. He helped create both of Nick Woltemade’s goals, with Eddie Howe hailing Gordon’s display.
The hope was that he could take that momentum into the Boxing Day game at Old Trafford, but Gordon and his Toon teammates are heading back to Tyneside empty handed. Newcastle lost 1-0 to Man United, with Patrick Dorgu’s first half volley deciding the game.
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It was a poor attacking performance from Newcastle United, who dominated possession and territory. Despite that, they were unable to score.
The Magpies’ forward players were massively underwhelming, which makes Eddie Howe’s verdict on Gordon’s performance rather interesting.
Eddie Howe was impressed with Anthony Gordon vs Manchester United
Immediately after Newcastle’s defeat to Manchester United, Howe was interviewed by Sky Sports.
The Newcastle United manager was asked about Gordon’s contribution, after the 24-year-old winger squandered a big chance late in the game.
“I thought he was probably our brightest player in attack today,” he said.
“I thought Anthony played well. I thought he was direct and full of running. I was pleased with his individual performance. Yes, the goal wasn’t there.
“We need more goalmouth creation and action, and to be more clinical in front of goal.”
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Newcastle United are not getting enough from Anthony Gordon
There were bright moments from Gordon at Old Trafford, and Howe’s assessment is probably fair. In comparison to the other Newcastle United attackers, Gordon was probably the most effective.
However, that is not a ringing endorsement of Gordon’s performance. Instead, it says more about the lack of impact from the likes of Jacob Murphy, Nick Woltemade, Yoane Wissa and Harvey Barnes.
While Howe thought Gordon did well against Manchester United, he could have done more. His crossing was largely ineffective, as Newcastle failed to truly test Senne Lammens.
With 10 goal contributions, Gordon’s numbers this season are nothing to be sniffed at. However, they do not tell the whole story. Seven of them have been in the Champions League, while his two Premier League goals were both penalties.
The fact that Gordon has not scored from open play in the Premier League since 15th January 2025 is alarming. That has to change soon, at a time when Newcastle United are worryingly toothless in attack.