Howe explains decision to haul off substitute Anthony Gordon against Brentford after Newcastle star’s furious reaction
EDDIE HOWE has insisted there is no issue with Anthony Gordon after the midfielder was left visibly unhappy after being subbed off against Brentford.
The 22-year-old had been brought off the bench at half-time with the Magpies trailing against the Bees.
But by the time Howe brought Gordon off again to waste time, Newcastle were 2-1 up with just a few minutes remaining.
Despite the Toon’s advantage, Gordon was clearly unhappy at his removal for Matt Ritchie.
Howe consoled the star at the full-time and the midfielder could later be seen smiling widely in a squad photo, suggesting any issues had been solved.
Speaking after the huge win, Howe said he had “no problem” with Gordon but added Howe added that he needs to “control his emotions in that moment”.
The Newcastle boss is also quoted in other interviews as saying that he picked the former Everton man to come off after as he was holding his ankle and Howe wanted to get an experienced player on.
It was otherwise a great away trip for Howe’s side who became only the second visiting side to win at the Gtech in the Premier League this season.
Ivan Toney converted from the spot having missed an earlier penalty to give Brentford the lead.
But an own goal from David Raya and a strike just after the hour mark from Alexander Isak gave Newcastle a big three points in the race to get into the Champions League.
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Top four rivals Manchester United and Tottenham also registered victories as the fight heats up.
Newcastle and the Red Devils are now locked on 56 points with Spurs three behind.