Eddie Howe faces calls to drop Anthony Gordon for vital Man Utd clash
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is facing increasing pressure to overhaul his starting line-up following a damaging 3-2 home defeat by Everton.
The Magpies succumbed to a late loss at St James’ Park, a result that leaves them languishing in 13th place in the Premier League table.
Everton snatched victory moments after Jacob Murphy had equalised, capitalizing on a defensive error to secure the points.
Defensive frailties expose Magpies
Anthony Gordon surrendered possession in a critical area before Thierno Barry bundled home the winner for the visitors.
It was a pivotal moment that highlighted the team’s fragility during a campaign that has fallen well below expectations.
That defeat saw Howe’s side drop below fierce North East rivals Sunderland and drift 15 points adrift of the Champions League places.
While the club has progressed in Europe, their domestic form has raised serious questions about the manager’s selection loyalty.
Gordon and Elanga under scrutiny
The England international has started 20 league games this term but has registered just one non-penalty goal.
Despite Howe’s patience, the former Everton winger’s output has failed to justify his continued selection.
Nick Woltemade is another figure struggling for form, having failed to impress in either a forward role or when deployed in midfield.
Anthony Elanga, a high-profile arrival from Nottingham Forest, has also yet to deliver value for the significant fee paid in the summer.
Changes required for United test
Newcastle face Manchester United next, a fixture that could prove decisive for the manager’s long-term future.
Howe has viable options on the bench, with Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock pushing for inclusion in the starting XI.
Jacob Murphy, Yoane Wissa, and William Osula also featured as substitutes against the Toffees and could offer fresh energy.
With the pressure mounting, a comprehensive reshuffle may be the only way to arrest the club’s alarming slide.
