Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says forward Anthony Gordon would probably prefer to play as a central attacker rather than his usual place on the left wing.
Gordon, 24, has cemented a place wide on the left for club and country since moving to St James’ Park.
In midweek he was offered the chance to play as the furthest man forward and shone against Qarabag, scoring four times in the first half as he became Newcastle’s leading goalscorer in the Champions League.
With Yoane Wissa injured and Nick Woltemade impressing in a 10 role, Gordon could get his wish to lead the line against Manchester City on Saturday evening.
Howe said: “Every player has a preference on positions. He’d probably prefer to play down the middle and lead the line because you have much more freedom.
“Ant has really good qualities in that position, especially his pressing intensity and understanding of when to do it is at the highest level.
“I was delighted with his performance. It was a great thing for him [to score 10 Champions League goals]. Sometimes these things happen in one competition and I’m sure he’ll want more goals in other competitions.
“But the Champions League has certainly got the best out of him and long may it continue.”
Newcastle face Manchester City for the fourth time this season on Saurday with a fifth game in the FA Cup to follow.
After their marathon trip east in midweek Howe expects some tired legs but also an improved performance after a recent good run of away form.
He added: “It was a late night for us, roughly a 4am return, actually maybe a bit later.
“So sleep was an issue but I think there was a good night’s rest for them last night and another sleep to go so hopefully by the time the game comes around we’ll be OK.
“Hopefully a lot of positives come out of the last few away wins. Three tough games in their own right but the performances have been really good and the individual performances have been a lot stronger. Collectively we’ve been much better.”
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: 101greatgoals.com
