Following a dramatic FA Cup weekend and Arsenal's dropped points at Wolves, which could prove pivotal in the title race, focus now shifts to a packed Premier League schedule. Numerous managers will preview the weekend's action on Friday, with Daily Mail Sport providing comprehensive coverage.
Howe Embraces Gordon's Selfish Instincts
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has encouraged in-form striker Anthony Gordon to continue displaying selfish tendencies after his outstanding performance in the Champions League. The 24-year-old forward netted four goals during Wednesday night's 6-1 play-off first-leg victory against Qarabag in Baku, bringing his total in this season's competition to an impressive ten goals.
Gordon maximized his deployment as a central striker, completing his haul with a second penalty after dismissing captain Kieran Trippier's suggestions to allow Nick Woltemade to take the spot-kick. This incident mirrored a similar situation from September 1999 when Alan Shearer overruled youngster Paul Robinson to score five goals in an 8-0 Premier League win against Sheffield Wednesday.
Howe's Positive Perspective
When questioned about whether he wanted Gordon to maintain a selfish streak, head coach Howe responded: 'There were really significant positives to extract from that incident. Moments like that often become exaggerated beyond proportion; it was actually a very minor issue.'
'It was excellent from Anthony that he possesses such strong resolve and desires to score in every possible moment—you would want that attribute from any player—so I have absolutely no issue with him.'
Howe continued: 'I also have no issue with Kieran, who was attempting to consider the team and lead in his own manner, demonstrating the aspiring leadership qualities he consistently displays. I genuinely viewed it as a positive situation from all perspectives.'
Dan Burn intervened between Kieran Trippier and Anthony Gordon during their disagreement, but the pair were all smiles afterward as they united for an interview with TNT Sports.
'The fortunate aspect is we converted the penalty, which in itself represents another positive outcome. I believe it demonstrated that all players care deeply and we are collectively determined to perform well,' Howe added.
Woltemade's Tactical Adaptation
Trippier's intervention aimed to provide record £69 million signing Nick Woltemade an opportunity to add to his goal from last Sunday's 3-1 FA Cup fourth-round victory at Aston Villa, which ended a 14-game scoring drought.
The 24-year-old German striker has recently assumed a midfield role and, similar to £40 million Brazilian Joelinton before him, has adapted remarkably well to this transition. Howe commented: 'Tactically, he is an exceptionally intelligent player. He has clearly received excellent education at his former clubs, so he adapted to the position very rapidly, and full credit to him for achieving that.'
Woltemade's capacity to perform in midfield will face a stern test if he is assigned a similar role during Saturday evening's match at Manchester City. The Magpies will renew their quest for a first victory at the Etihad Stadium and a first league win there since September 2000, having suffered defeats in their last sixteen visits to City.
When asked whether Woltemade could execute this role against Pep Guardiola's squad, Howe stated: 'We shall see. Based on what I have observed in training and how he has embraced the work we have conducted with him, I would say yes.'
'Naturally, performing in one environment differs considerably from executing during a matchday, with the intense pressure of the game and everything that accompanies it. However, I would not position him there if I did not believe he could accomplish it successfully.'
