For any player, being forced to watch from the sidelines is incredibly difficult. For Anthony Gordon, the past few weeks have been a test of patience.
The dynamic winger received a red card in the thrilling match against Liverpool, resulting in a three-match suspension that has kept him out of Premier League action.
While his teammates have battled on the pitch, he has had to support them from the stands, waiting for his chance to contribute once again.
That wait is finally over, and the stage for his return could not be more grand. While his domestic suspension is still in effect, it does not apply to UEFA competitions.
This means Gordon is fully available for selection as Newcastle United prepares to welcome the legendary FC Barcelona to a buzzing St James’ Park for their UEFA Champions League opener.
His energy, pace, and direct attacking style will be a welcome addition to Eddie Howe’s options for such a monumental fixture.
Ahead of the big game, Gordon has decided to make a small but noticeable change. In recent months, the 24-year-old has sported a distinctive look, letting his hair grow out and often wearing a headband during matches, a style that reminded many fans of a classic 1990s tennis player.
It became a part of his on-field identity. However, in preparation for the Barcelona match, he has opted for a fresh new look.
A local North East barber, Cal MacBlain, shared a video on social media after giving Gordon a haircut, calling it a “pleasure” to have the Newcastle star in his chair for the first time and declaring him “Champions League ready.”
Sometimes, a change in appearance can symbolize a new beginning or a fresh focus, and the hope among fans is that this new look will inspire a powerful performance from the number ten.
His return is also timely given the latest team news. Barcelona will be without their own young superstar, the injured Lamine Yamal, which could slightly alter the balance of the match.
Gordon’s availability gives Manager Eddie Howe a significant boost and a valuable weapon to deploy against the Spanish champions.
This match will be a brand new experience for Gordon in more ways than one. While he gained valuable European experience during Newcastle’s last Champions League campaign, the team did not face Barcelona during that run.
This means Thursday night will be the first time in his career that he has ever played against the Catalan giants. The same is true for many of his teammates, making it a historic occasion for the entire squad.
Newcastle’s overall record against Barcelona is a challenging one, with three losses from their four previous meetings.
The one glorious exception was a famous 3-2 victory at St James’ Park in 1997, a night forever remembered for Tino Asprilla’s incredible hat-trick. The entire Toon Army will be dreaming of a similar magical performance this time around.
For Anthony Gordon, the stage is perfectly set. After a period of enforced rest, he is returning with a fresh look and a point to prove on one of the biggest nights in the club’s recent history.
His direct running, fearlessness, and eye for goal could be exactly what Newcastle needs to unlock a strong Barcelona defense.
The atmosphere will be electric, the opposition is world-class, and a returning hero is ready to play his part. All the ingredients are there for a memorable European night under the lights.
