Howe Tells Newcastle Forward Gordon to Hold on to His Selfish Side

Eddie Howe, the manager of Newcastle, is encouraging his talented forward Anthony Gordon to maintain his self-centred approach after his impressive showing in the Champions League against Qarabag.

The 24 year old player from England netted four times during Wednesdays 6 to 1 triumph in the initial play off match in Baku, bringing his total goals in this seasons tournament to 10.

He capped his performance with a second penalty kick at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium, disregarding requests from Newcastle skipper Kieran Trippier to let Nick Woltemade handle the penalty.

When questioned about desiring Gordon to show a selfish trait, Howe said to journalists on Friday: There were many encouraging aspects from that event. Situations like that tend to be exaggerated greatly, yet it was truly a small matter.

It was excellent that Anthony possesses such firm determination to net goals in every opportunity and that is what you expect from every team member so I have no problem with his choice.

I also have no problem with Kieran for considering the groups needs and leading as he always does as an effective captain in all scenarios. In fact I viewed it as a genuine benefit for everyone involved.

The best part is that the penalty found the net, which adds yet another advantage. It demonstrated that the entire squad is invested and eager to succeed.

Newcastle, sitting mid table in the Premier League, will face second placed Manchester City on Saturday, as the Magpies aim for their debut victory at the Etihad and their first league success there, having been defeated in their previous 16 league trips to City since September 2000.