Eddie Howe backs ‘selfish’ Anthony Gordon after four-goal Champions League haul
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has encouraged Anthony Gordon to maintain his “selfish” streak following the forward’s four-goal display in the Champions League.
The England international scored four times during the Magpies’ emphatic 6-1 play-off first-leg victory over Qarabag in Baku on Wednesday.
Gordon’s haul took his tally in this season’s competition to 10 goals as he thrived in a central striking role.
However, the 24-year-old waved away captain Kieran Trippier’s request to hand penalty duties to team-mate Nick Woltemade for his fourth goal.
Howe praises striker’s resolve
The incident echoed Alan Shearer’s refusal to let Paul Robinson take a penalty during an 8-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday in 1999.
When asked about Gordon’s refusal to pass the ball, Howe insisted the moment highlighted the player’s elite mentality.
“There were really big positives to take from that incident,” said Howe. “Moments like that get blown out of all proportion, it was a very minor issue.”
The Newcastle boss believes that hunger is essential for a top-level forward.
“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 intervention, describing the full-back as an “aspiring leader” looking out for the squad.
Woltemade’s tactical switch
Trippier had hoped to boost the confidence of club-record £69m signing Woltemade.
The German striker recently broke a 14-game goal drought in the FA Cup but has been deployed in a deeper midfield role in recent outings.
He appears to be adapting well to the transition, similar to Brazilian team-mate Joelinton.
“Tactically, he’s a very, very intelligent player,” Howe added. “He’s obviously been well-educated in his former clubs, so he took to it really quickly.”
Woltemade’s ability to play in midfield could be tested again when the Magpies travel to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
Newcastle face Manchester City seeking their first league win at the venue since September 2000.