Eddie Howe knows that he has a large selection call prior to Newcastle's Champions League Six -Pointer against Chelsea -What to do with Anthony Gordon?
The wing player in England did not start a match since he was sent in the FA Cup Fifth Round Nederay by Brighton at the beginning of March. He was hung for three games, including the Carabao Cup final, and has since been injured or on the couch.
But Gordon gave his most impactful cameee so far during last weekend's 1-1 tie in Brighton, and has followed that with what Howe calls his 'best week' of training since he injured his hip during the international break of March.
With three games to go in the Newcastle search for the top five, and with Gordon that he has proven a player for the great occasion this season, Howe admits that he has given him a decision to make.
“There is a household name from Anthony that he has not been completely fit (in recent weeks),” said Howe. 'We have had discussions and communication that I try to do with all players. But of course, I know now, he feels good in his body and feels ready to start. That is the decision I have to make.
“But in the end you have to try to choose what you see and the relationships in the team have been good, so you have to be careful not to change something that doesn't have to change.”
If Howe were to make a change, this could mean that it would split the left -sided coupling of Tino Livramento and Harvey Barnes, which did so well in Gordon's absence. The head coach seemed reluctant to do that when they pressed their shape.
“I can't give both Tino and Harvey enough credit, he said. 'I think Tino was excellent. I really do it. Defensive and attacking. His use of the ball, his tactical concept was excellent.
“And then to Harvey. Harvey played in his position and he played it very well. He is undoubtedly target threat in every match and he is one of our highest players to shoot and created opportunities, so I am glad he has shown everyone how good he is. '
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