Anthony Gordon’s time at Newcastle United has been a journey of ups and downs, but this season, fans are finally beginning to see flashes of the confident, fearless winger they once admired at Everton.
After a year filled with fatigue, pressure, and confusion over his best position, Gordon looks revitalized sharper, hungrier, and more determined to make a mark at St. James’ Park.
Last season was tough for him. Having barely had a proper break in almost three years, Gordon entered the campaign mentally and physically drained. To make matters worse, he spent much of the summer consumed by transfer rumours linking him to Liverpool, his boyhood club.
The constant noise affected his focus, and his performances suffered as a result. Consistency became hard to find, and the player who had once lit up Goodison Park with pace and confidence seemed to lose some of his spark.
Thankfully, a much-needed summer break allowed him to reset. This season, he’s returned refreshed and full of energy, eager to prove his worth.
His pressing, pace, and desire are back on display, showing a player who has rediscovered his confidence. Yet, despite these improvements, there remains one big issue that frustrates fans his positioning.
For reasons known only to Eddie Howe, Gordon has occasionally been deployed as a striker, a role that simply doesn’t fit his skill set. When Newcastle supporters see his name listed as the team’s number nine, it sparks immediate frustration.
He’s not a natural finisher or a target man; he thrives on running at defenders, cutting inside, and creating chances from the flanks.
TalkSPORT pundit Ally McCoist summed it up perfectly when he was asked about Gordon’s role. “Anthony Gordon is a terrific player,” he said. “I enjoy watching him. But never in a million years is he a number nine.
Could he fill in there as a stopgap? Maybe. But nobody can convince me that Anthony Gordon is a centre-forward. He does his best work from the wide areas that’s where he belongs.”
McCoist’s comments resonate with most Newcastle fans, who share the same sentiment. Playing Gordon through the middle strips away what makes him special.
His biggest strengths his acceleration, dribbling, and ability to stretch the pitch are neutralized when he’s forced to play with his back to goal or hold up play against towering defenders.
The statistics support that view too. Despite being used as a striker at times, Gordon hasn’t found the net for Newcastle in that position, other than a single penalty.
Ironically, his first goal this season came in a match where he started up front but only scored after being switched back to his natural left-wing role. That moment told fans everything they needed to know.
It’s not that Gordon lacks the desire or effort to adapt he’s an incredibly hard-working player. But there’s a difference between versatility and being forced into a role that doesn’t suit your natural instincts.
Gordon’s sharp runs, quick turns, and direct dribbling make him a nightmare for full-backs, not centre-halves. His confidence grows when he can see the pitch in front of him, not when he’s trapped between two defenders waiting for service.
Eddie Howe clearly believes Gordon can handle the central role when needed, and Gordon himself has hinted that he enjoys playing through the middle.
But just because he can do a job there doesn’t mean it’s the best use of his talents. Newcastle have enough attacking options to experiment elsewhere even a raw, unpredictable player like Will Osula might offer more as a true striker, allowing Gordon to stay where he is most dangerous: on the left wing.
In truth, Gordon’s evolution under Howe has been positive overall. His work rate has improved, his decision-making has matured, and he’s become more disciplined defensively.
He looks like a player who is buying into the team’s philosophy and learning what it takes to be a top Premier League performer. But for him to truly shine, he needs to be played where he’s most effective.
McCoist’s “never in a million years” remark wasn’t meant as criticism it was an acknowledgment of Gordon’s natural gifts and where they flourish best.
Newcastle’s resurgence has been built on players excelling in their proper roles, and Gordon’s left-wing brilliance is something the team should be building around, not experimenting with.
As the season progresses, it’s clear that Anthony Gordon is on his way back to his best form. With time, patience, and the right positioning, he can once again be one of Newcastle’s biggest threats.
But as McCoist rightly said, he’s not a number nine not now, and probably not ever. His home is on the wing, where his speed, energy, and determination can truly shine for the Magpies.
