James Tarkowski can’t start vs Anthony Gordon and Newcastle, history could repeat itself at Everton

Everton would risk another defeat by starting James Tarkowski against Newcastle United on Saturday.

The Toffees are awaiting a clash with Eddie Howe’s men as they go in search of a first Premier League win in three games.

David Moyes watched on as his side fell to a 1-0 defeat against Manchester United last time around, in yet another Hill Dickinson Stadium loss.

A trip to St James’ Park now awaits, something that won’t represent an easy task with Anthony Gordon on top form.

The former Everton man could cause massive problems for Tarkowski, especially given what happened last time out on Merseyside.

Everton vs Newcastle United Anthony Gordon

James Tarkowski let Everton down vs Manchester United

The former Burnley man has been a rock for the Blues ever since moving to L4, but Monday wasn’t his best night.

A 1-0 defeat marked yet another home defeat since departing Goodison, and the 33-year-old was at fault for the winning goal.

Sesko burst from the halfway line and left the Englishman in his dust before applying a clinical finish past Jordan Pickford to open the scoring.

Some other elements of his performance were equally frustrating, with his 25 per cent long ball success causing more problems than good for Moyes and Co.

It is his lack of pace that could cause major problems for Everon moving forward, especially as they prepare to come up against Gordon in the North East.

How can Everton deal with Anthony Gordon?

There is no introduction needed for the versatile forward in L4 following his January 2023 exit, after 80 senior appearances in blue.

He has faced a toxic atmosphere in fixtures against Everton ever since, and that is not likely to be different in the upcoming St James’ clash.

Gordon comes into this clash having recently scored four in a Champions League playoff clash away to Qarabag.

Newcastle United Instagram post marking Anthony Gordon's four goals vs Qarabag in the Champions League

The 24-year-old reached a top speed of 31.5km/h in Azerbaijan, completed two dribbles and took six shots on target.

All of that is bound to contribute to a difficult day for Tarkowski, because if Gordon is on his game, he is a true danger.

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