Joey Barton unleashes vicious X-rated attack on Newcastle United star
Joey Barton did not hold back on Anthony Gordon’s recent performances for Newcastle United.
Joey Barton has accused Anthony Gordon of having a “Ronaldo-like aura” while failing to produce the goods for Newcastle United.
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Toon fans have debated whether Gordon deserves a spot out wide in recent weeks. Harvey Barnes is in electric form and has often been shifted onto the right flank - despite preferring the left.
As for Gordon - who has more England caps - today marks one year since he last registered an open-play goal in the Premier League. The 24-year-old remains Newcastle’s first-choice penalty taker, with his scoring efforts limited to the spot this season.
Joey Barton does not hold back on Anthony Gordon
Former Newcastle midfielder Barton has taken aim at Gordon - a fellow Scouser - over his attitude and hairstyle. He also bizarrely used the outburst to take a swipe at England women’s star Chloe Kelly.
“It doesn't matter how many mad colours you put in your hair or Adidas f------- headbands (you have), it ain’t gonna work for you lad,” Barton told the Common Sense podcast. “Get yourself a short back and sides and start putting a consistent performance in because the way he floats around the pitch…
“He’s got this mad Ronaldo essence-like aura when he’s like Chloe Kelly. He’s got Chloe Kelly’s f------- aura but thinks he’s got Ronaldo's aura. He’s lucky that Harvey Barnes can’t lay a glove on him. I’m telling you now, he is massively having a poke of himself and Newcastle United have got to finish in the top six. They’ve got a f------- scrap on to finish top six.”
Eddie Howe gives telling Anthony Gordon response
Earlier this month, when asked by NewcastleWorld why Barnes is always the one who must shift onto the right flank, Eddie Howe alarmingly let slip that Gordon does not like the position. He said: “I don't think Anthony enjoys playing on the right. I think Harvey is a lot more open to it and quite enjoys the freedom that the position gives him with our way of playing.
“Of course, that doesn't mean I can't play Anthony out there but if a player doesn't really want to play in that position I think it's a difficult one to force a player to do it because I don't think you'll get the same kind of performances.”