Anthony Gordon’s memorable March continued when the England newcomer won a penalty two minutes into his club return to allow Alexander Isak a chance he took to give Newcastle the lead against West Ham in the Premier League.
Winger Gordon was caught by a dismally-timed VladimĂr Coufal challenge inside the box at St James’ Park on a day when the hosts knew victory would send them a point behind their seventh-placed opponents with a game in hand.
Following a lengthy VAR check for a potential offside, Newcastle top scorer Isak fired in his spot kick for his 17th goal of the season.
The early opener gave Gordon more cause to celebrate following his England debut in their 1-0 defeat to Brazil at Wembley Stadium a week earlier.
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Gordon also came on as a substitute in his country’s 2-2 draw at home to Belgium on Tuesday, continuing their preparations for Uefa Euro 2024.
The 23-year-old has impressed for Newcastle and looks to have improved his chances of being chosen by England for the finals, which begin in Germany in June.
Alexander Isak puts Newcastle ahead from the spot! 🎯 pic.twitter.com/98MTHArpFp
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 30, 2024
“He’s definitely come back with a smile and a confidence,” Magpies manager Eddie Howe told TNT Sports before kick-off.
“He had a good time with England. I’m really pleased for him but now he’s back with Newcastle and we need big performance from him. We need positive results.”
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Howe’s hopes of victory were swiftly dealt a blow when defender Jamaal Lascelles became their latest casualty of a season littered with injuries.
Michail Antonio then latched on to Lucas Paqueta’s pass to equalise 15 minutes after Isak’s goal.
Michail Antonio equalises brilliantly for West Ham 🤩 pic.twitter.com/3K0M6EaJyU
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 30, 2024
Gordon’s nine goals and five assists in 2023/24 meant there were only four players with better combined figures in the Premier League before his side took part in the first game of the weekend in the division.
Scotland had been keen to call Gordon up before the former Everton prospect was selected by Southgate, who had hinted at the end of 2023 that a call-up was imminent.
