How Eddie Howe reacted immediately after Anthony Gordon’s red card during Newcastle vs Brighton

Anthony Gordon’s red card during Newcastle United’s FA Cup fifth-round clash against Brighton has left the Magpies facing a significant setback ahead of their highly anticipated Carabao Cup final.

In a tense encounter at St James’ Park, Newcastle battled to find a winner in the second half, only for Gordon’s moment of frustration to reduce them to 10 men.

Eddie Howe had named a strong starting lineup, featuring both Alexander Isak and Gordon in attack. The 24-year-old winger, who has been a key figure for Newcastle this season, found himself at the center of controversy following an altercation with Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke.

In a heated moment, Gordon appeared to lash out, prompting referee Anthony Taylor to issue an immediate red card. After a VAR review confirmed the decision, Gordon was left with no choice but to leave the pitch, a moment that could have massive repercussions for Newcastle’s upcoming fixtures.

The straight red card means that Gordon will now serve a three-match suspension, ruling him out of the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool. For a team desperate to end a 70-year trophy drought, losing a player of Gordon’s caliber at such a critical time is a major blow.

Facing Jurgen Klopp’s side at Wembley was already a daunting challenge, and now, with one of their most dynamic attacking threats unavailable, Newcastle’s task has become even more difficult.

Eddie Howe has worked tirelessly to ensure his squad remains focused on each match rather than looking ahead to the final, but Gordon’s dismissal has forced an unwanted distraction.

The Newcastle boss, known for his calm and composed demeanor, appeared visibly unimpressed as Gordon made his way past the bench after the red card. Reports indicate that Howe did not acknowledge the winger as he left the field, a possible reflection of his disappointment with the incident.

Gordon, on the other hand, protested the decision with the fourth official, but the VAR review upheld the call, leaving Newcastle to finish the match with 10 men.

With Gordon now ruled out of the final, Howe faces a crucial decision regarding his starting lineup at Wembley. The winger had been one of the few guaranteed starters for the cup final, given his form and influence on the team.

His absence forces Newcastle into a tactical rethink, particularly on the left flank. Jacob Murphy, typically a reliable option on the right, may need to shift roles, but Howe must carefully evaluate his choices to ensure the team remains competitive against a Liverpool side known for its relentless attacking play.

Newcastle’s attacking setup has relied heavily on Gordon’s ability to drive forward, create chances, and apply pressure on opposition defenses. Without him, the Magpies must adjust their approach, either by deploying a more defensive-minded player or reshuffling the front three entirely.

Howe’s decision could define Newcastle’s performance in the final, making the selection process even more critical in the days leading up to the match.

The loss of Gordon underscores the fine margins in knockout football, where a single moment can alter the course of a season.

His red card not only affects Newcastle’s immediate FA Cup ambitions but also complicates their preparations for one of the most important matches in recent club history. The timing of the suspension could not be worse, as the Magpies look to secure silverware for the first time in decades.

While Newcastle still possesses attacking talent capable of troubling Liverpool, Gordon’s absence removes a key piece of the puzzle. Howe will need to inspire his squad to step up in his absence, ensuring they maintain their attacking threat while remaining disciplined in high-pressure moments.

Wembley represents a golden opportunity for Newcastle to claim a major trophy, but they must now do so without one of their brightest attacking talents.

As the final approaches, all eyes will be on Howe’s tactical adjustments and whether Newcastle can overcome this setback. The road to Wembley has been filled with challenges, and losing Gordon only adds to the adversity they must overcome.

However, with the right mindset and strategic planning, the Magpies still have a chance to make history. The pressure is on, but Newcastle must find a way to rise to the occasion, even without one of their most influential players.