Newcastle United star ‘in a much better place’ could make only second start v West Ham

Anthony Gordon impressed Eddie Howe during his 22-minute cameo against Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.

Newcastle United’s £45million January signing from Everton returned to action after being forced to miss wins over Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest because of an ankle injury.

Gordon picked up the issue on his first start for the Magpies, which ended in a 2-0 defeat at Manchester City, but worked hard during the two-week international break to play a part against the Red Devils.

The 22-year-old was introduced from the bench three minutes after Joe Willock’s 65th-minute opener and put it a lively and determined display to help his side claim three points. Callum Wilson added a second goal in the closing stages.

With United playing their second game in just four days, Howe could be tempted to freshen up his starting XI for the visit to West Ham United, and Gordon has put himself in contention,

“He’s in a much better place now,” Howe told NewcastleWorld. “He used the international break wisely to get his ankle right. He came back ahead of schedule so really pleased with that.

“I’m really pleased with his desire and motivation to try and play and help the team. I think he’s got a brilliant mentality and a top player in the making. He’s got everything he needs.

“I thought he did well when he came on, gave us a lift at a key time in the game.”

Another decision Howe is facing is whether or not to recall Wilson to the starting XI after getting back among the goals against Man United. Since returning from the World Cup, the United No.9 has scored just twice, one of which was against West Ham in February.

In total, Wilson has netted 10 goals in just 12 games against the Hammers, though faces competition from Alexander Isak for a starting spot.

“It is [a hard decision] and I do what those decisions to make over an intense period,” said Howe. “It’s about getting the balance right in terms of load and who plays where and when, that’s going to be important for us this month.”

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