The Anthony Gordon gesture that impressed Eddie Howe after England duty


Anthony Gordon returned to training early after England duty this week with Newcastle United chief Eddie Howe confident that he can bury any demons against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Having missed a crucial penalty against Everton, Gordon steps into the encounter with the Seagulls knowing he will probably be restored to his favoured position out wide. With Alexander Isak fit again, Gordon will be looking to rekindle his partnership with the Sweden star after his comeback from a toe injury.

Gordon played against Greece in the 2-1 defeat at Wembley in the UEFA Nations League but did not get off the bench in Helsinki against Finland. It means he will be refreshed for Newcastle when they take on Albion in front of a packed house at St James' Park.

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Lifting the lid on Gordon's decision to come back before he was told, Howe said: "Anthony was one of the players that we got back early and he had two really good days training with us.

"I haven’t seen any effects from Anthony. He is very resolute and strong and doesn’t give a lot away in terms of how he’s feeling and has that ability to move on very quickly, which is a real strength.

“He’s a really important player for us and I hope we can continue to build on the momentum. When you look back to the Manchester City game I thought that he was excellent, and he did well at Everton. So I have no issues in terms of his form.”

Gordon has two goals to his name this season and will eager to put the penalty against Everton out of his mind.