Newcastle United earned an important 1-0 victory against Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday (2 December) at St James’ Park where Anthony Gordon scored the winner for the Magpies.
Garth Crooks in the Team of the Week column for BBC Sport, has picked Fabian Schar and Gordon, where he hailed the Swiss international as “outstanding” during the game.
The popular football pundit also asked the question of why Gordon is being continuously ignored by Gareth Southgate. Marcus Rashford was poor during the game, while Gordon was terrific, and naturally the comparison has surfaced.
Schar was superb at the back and his runs with the ball have been compared with club hero Philippe Albert during the Kevin Keegan era.
Crooks on Schar: “Watching Schar drive at the Manchester United defence with the ball at his feet was almost a throwback to the days of Philippe Albert during the Kevin Keegan era.
“The ensuing free-kick by Kieran Trippier left Andre Onana in the United goal rooted to the spot, only to be saved by the underside of the bar. Schar’s contribution to Newcastle’s victory cannot be underestimated. The Swiss international was outstanding and never gave Anthony Martial a kick.”
Crooks on Gordon: “Gordon has now scored in four Premier League home games, and the way he is playing I’ve no doubt there are more to come. His performances for Newcastle recently beg the question, why hasn’t he been considered for England? The difference between Gordon and Marcus Rashford on Saturday night was like chalk and cheese.”
Gordon deserves England call-up
The 22-year-old struggled with form and injury since joining from Everton in the January window.
After enjoying the pre-season under Eddie Howe, Gordon has become one of the key players for the Magpies. Known for his fearless approach, he brings raw energy in the middle of the park.
He has got skill and craft to score goals and create chances for others, and currently has been enjoying a great run of form.
Gordon has scored six goals and provided three assists in the Premier League thus far. Southgate cannot ignore him for long if he continues to impress.
