‘You are lost’ - Anthony Gordon sob story - name-checks Newcastle United in swipe at critics
Anthony Gordon believes his game is underrated as he searches for an elusive first Barcelona goal.
Anthony Gordon has suggested he is underrated and does not get the credit deserved for his football ability.
Barcelona paid Newcastle United £70million to sign the England international in June. His high-pressing, all-action style was widely cited as the key reason for Hansi Flick making him a top target.
A bright start resulted in Gordon notching five assists for his new teammates. However, the critics were out in force following a lacklustre performance against Sevilla.
Gordon is yet to score a goal in Barca colours and the arrival of Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund has made competition for minutes tough. Speaking to Spanish outlet El Pais, the former Toon star claimed his work rate makes people undervalue other attributes he can offer.
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‘The problem is…’ - Anthony Gordon
“The problem with my style is that, since I press the opponent, people focus a lot on this and I think the quality of my true level might surprise many when they see me up close,” Gordon said. “That happened to me at Newcastle.
“Eddie Howe signed me from Everton so that I would run and press. And then, when I got there, it was like them saying, ‘Ah, you are actually a good player’. I feel that my intelligence as a footballer is the quality of mine that gets the least recognition.
“And I think this is one of the reasons for my ability to play at Barcelona. Because if you are not intelligent in this team, you are lost. You have to make good decisions all the time, otherwise you will look bad.
“Intelligence is making the right decision more often than the times you do not. Maybe I should shoot at goal more or be a little less generous, but that is not in my nature. Making the right decision makes me feel satisfied.”
What Hansi Flick told Anthony Gordon
Gordon also named Barca manager Flick as a key reason for his decision. He added: "Flick told me he wanted me to come and that I fit his style and the things he likes. When you talk to him, you realise he has a good character.
“He is calm and a good person. He speaks clearly, and I like that. I prefer honesty, even if it is harsh, and on top of that, they had the best team, so I wanted to be part of this project."
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