Newcastle United's manager Eddie Howe has praised striker Anthony Gordon for his recent performance in the Champions League, where he scored four goals in a dominant 6-1 victory over Qarabag. Howe emphasized the importance of Gordon's 'selfish streak' in wanting to score, despite a minor incident where Gordon rejected the captain's request to allow another player to take a penalty kick. Howe reassured that such moments should not overshadow the positives in Gordon's drive to excel on the field.

By scoring ten goals in this season's Champions League, Gordon has established himself as a crucial player for Newcastle, showcasing his talent on the international stage. Howe's statement highlights a managerial approach that balances individual ambition with team dynamics, suggesting that he values players who exhibit confidence and a strong competitive spirit. This understanding reflects the evolving nature of team sports, where individual performances can lead to broader team success.

Overall, Howe's praise for Gordon is a testament to the player's hard work and dedication. It also serves as a reminder that having a selfish element can be beneficial for strikers, who are often in positions where their primary focus should be scoring goals. The incident may have been minor, but Howe's comments reinforce the idea that players should feel empowered to seize scoring opportunities, thereby potentially enhancing Newcastle's performance as they progress in the competition.