BBC pundit Lennon wowed by ‘terrific’ Anthony Gordon in Everton v Newcastle United
Neil Lennon was blown away by Anthony Gordon after he saw the Everton youngster play for the first time on Tuesday night.
Gordon, 20, played all 90 minutes of Everton’s 3-1 defeat Newcastle at St James’ Park in what was Frank Lampard’s first Premier League game in charge of the Toffees.
It certainly wasn’t a night to remember for Evertonians but Lennon will certainly remember Gordon’s performance as the BBC pundit was impressed by the young attacker.
“This is the first time I have seen Anthony Gordan play and I have to say he has been absolutely terrific so far,” said Lennon on BBC Radio 5 Live on Tuesday night, as quoted by BBC Sport.
“His work-rate to get the ball back and then to spring Everton into attack, his enthusiasm for the game and then quality has been terrific.”
Our best player?
It was an awful performance by almost every single Everton player on the pitch at St James’ Park.
Gordon was easily the stand-out player for the Toffees, who really let the travelling supporters and their new manager down.
However, the finger does have to be pointed at Lampard for that as well because his tactics, in-game management and team selection need to called into question.
Firstly, nothing could’ve been done about the injuries. Yerry Mina and Demarai Gray were both forced off early on, which was unfortunate.
However, why did Lampard not bring on Dominic Calvert-Lewin and go with a front-four in a bid to get something back from the game?
Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison up front with Gordon and Andros Townsend out wide and Dele Alli in behind would have been ideal.
Instead, we got nowhere and ended up conceding a third, match-killing goal.
Gordon did well and should continue to stay in the starting line-up but questions should be raised about everyone else.
In other Everton news, Stan Collymore says it’s the “last-chance saloon” for this Evertonian ace.