'A problem' - Anthony Gordon finally completes Everton challenge set by Arsenal legend at Newcastle United

Anthony Gordon has answered Ian Wright’s call - becoming “a problem” for Premier League defenders and an impressive finisher in the final third.

Another productive performance for the winger resulted in two assists and a goal as Newcastle United put Tottenham Hotspur to the sword. Gordon was at his menacing best - as he has often been throughout the campaign.

Even during the Magpies’ mid-season slump, the 23-year-old never shirked, always looking to drive his team forward. Many Toon fans have already tipped him to become the club’s Player of the Season.

That label seemed unlikely 12 months ago, with Gordon struggling to adjust to Eddie Howe’s demands. Skipping a post-season holiday to star as England under-21s won the Euros, where he won Player of the Tournament, laid the foundations for a stellar campaign.

Before his Newcastle switch, Arsenal legend Wright advised Gordon on how to improve his game. He said after Everton’s 1-1 draw with Brentford in August 2022: "The next step for Anthony is in front of goal, we work and talk about it a lot, and he showed great composure. He waited, took another touch and then finished, and I'm delighted for him.”

Fast forward to the present and Wright is raving about Gordon. The 60-year-old also hailed Howe for “nurturing” the winger into a certain England star.

“Can I just say with Anthony Gordon, looking at a player who has gone somewhere and has blossomed, what Eddie Howe’s done for him,” he told the Wrighty’s House podcast. “His movement in off the line. His finishing, his energy… we’re looking at a winger now who has firmly put himself in the picture for the Euros.

“Anthony Gordon looks like a problem. He’s a problem. He’s bringing seven out of 10 performances every week, eight, nines maybe. His consistency’s gone somewhere else. Eddie Howe’s got to take a lot of credit for the way he’s nurtured him into an England international.”