Ex-Everton man Anthony Gordon told what he has to do to start for Newcastle United v Liverpool

Eddie Howe admits Anthony Gordon is “getting closer” to a first Newcastle United start after another pleasing cameo against Bournemouth.

Having been named on the bench for the second consecutive game, the £45million signing from Everton was called upon in the 35th minute at the Vitality Stadium following a hamstring injury to Joe Willock.

The loss of a central midfielder and the introduction of the attack-minded Gordon saw Howe to change from his trusted 4-4-3 formation to 4-2-3-1.

Gordon played as a “second striker” to Alexander Isak, who started in place of the injured Callum Wilson, a slight difference from the wide position he performed against West Ham United last week.

And the 21-year-old came close to finding a winner on the South Coast after missing an opportunity from six yards out.

“I thought he did really well,” Howe said. “It was a slightly different role for him today.

“With Joe Willock getting injured, we reshuffled our system. We put Anthony central to drift wide and I thought he did that to really good effect. He contributed to our goal in that way as well.

“Very pleased also with his attitude and out-of-possession work ethic, which really does fit our profile.”

Newcastle welcome Liverpool to St James’ Park next Saturday (kick-off 5:30pm). Gordon was in the Reds’ academy before being picked up by Merseyside rivals Everton.

“He’s definitely getting closer by performing well, that’s all he can focus on,” Howe said when asked if Gordon could start versus Jurgen Klopp’s side.

“Each time he enters the pitch, he needs to catch our eye and continue to impress. I think he’s made a very good start.”