‘The trigger’ - Alan Shearer singles out ‘superb’ Newcastle United player after Tottenham Hotspur win

Alan Shearer has hailed Anthony Gordon as the player who “sets the tone” for Newcastle United.

The 23-year-old was at his imperious best as Newcastle battered Tottenham 4-0 at St James’ Park. Playing on the right flank, Gordon bagged a goal and two assists to put Spurs to the sword in brutal fashion.

His performances for the Magpies earned him a maiden England call-up last month, with Gordon now looking a shoo-in for Euro 2024. The winger endured an underwhelming few months after arriving on Tyneside but has become arguably Newcastle’s most destructive player this season.

Bagging against Spurs made Gordon only the second player - after Jamie Vardy - to score against all of the Premier League’s “big six” in a single season. Another stunning display means Newcastle now sit sixth - and are in pole position for a Europa League spot.

Manchester United were held by Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium and, with a much inferior goal difference, failed to leapfrog Newcastle. Gordon and Co can rest up for 10 days before travelling to Crystal Palace on April 24.

Speaking following the Spurs drubbing, Toon icon Shearer singled out the “superb” Gordon for praise. He said: “He has been brilliant. His goals are superb, but I think his attitude. I am always reluctant to praise players’ work rate and commitment because it should be a given.

“But this is exceptional. He sets the tone for Newcastle when they press. He is the trigger. When he goes, everyone has to go. He has so much energy.”