Alious
Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker have both highlighted a Newcastle United star hitting top form just in time for Sunday’s Tyne–Wear derby, issuing an early warning to rivals Sunderland ahead of the fiercely anticipated clash.
Eddie Howe prepares for only his second meeting with the Black Cats as Newcastle boss, having overseen a convincing 3–0 FA Cup win at the Stadium of Light in January 2024. This time, however, the challenge is far greater. With Sunderland back in the Premier League and enjoying an impressive start to the campaign, the atmosphere promises to be far more hostile.
Still, Newcastle have every reason to feel confident. Howe has a talented, well-balanced squad featuring elite midfielders Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali, and — crucially — a resurgent Anthony Gordon.
Gordon Rediscovering Top Form Before Derby Day
The 24-year-old winger delivered a brilliant performance in Newcastle’s recent draw against Bayer Leverkusen, scoring and assisting in a display that continued his strong Champions League run. Now with four goal involvements in his last three matches, Gordon appears to have found the consistency that had been eluding him earlier this season.
His standout showing was noticed by both Shearer and Lineker, who praised him on *The Rest Is Football* podcast:
Lineker: “It looked like Anthony Gordon was really impressive against Bayer Leverkusen.”
Shearer: “Another goal. Another assist. Great ball in.”
Lineker: “And very unlucky not to score when he hit the inside of the post.”
Shearer: “Great cross for Miley’s header. He looks back to his best, Anthony Gordon.”
Memories of Derby Dominance Fuel Gordon’s Confidence
Gordon will head to the Stadium of Light with not only momentum, but also positive memories of his last derby outing. Nearly two years ago, he tormented Sunderland in a 3–0 victory, operating as part of an attacking trio with Alexander Isak and Miguel Almirón.
His pace and close control caused havoc for the Black Cats’ defence, who struggled so much to contain him that they resorted to pulling him back by his shirt.
Gordon ultimately won a penalty that Isak converted, further cementing his influence on the match.
As Newcastle prepare for another heated showdown, Gordon’s form and history against Sunderland make him one of Howe’s most dangerous weapons.
If he channels the same aggression and sharpness he showed in the previous derby, Sunderland could once again find themselves unable to cope.
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