Eddie Howe had hoped that a confident Anthony Gordon could provide Newcastle United with a crucial advantage against Chelsea following his recent contract extension. The 23-year-old forward signed a six-year deal with the club earlier in the week, and Howe believed this would help Gordon rediscover his best form. However, the effectiveness of this expectation remains uncertain, as Gordon was unable to participate in the match at Stamford Bridge due to a groin injury.
Despite traveling with the squad, Gordon was not included in the starting lineup or on the bench, leading to Harvey Barnes getting the opportunity to start on the left wing. Unfortunately, Barnes struggled to make an impact, contributing to Newcastle’s 2-1 defeat. Earlier this season, Howe had praised Barnes as a ‘unique’ player, but his performance against Chelsea did not reflect that sentiment. Instead, he appeared ineffective and wasteful, failing to capitalize on the opportunity presented by Gordon’s absence.
Barnes had shown promise earlier in the season, netting three goals and demonstrating the potential to solidify his place in the starting eleven. Yet, in this match, he was unable to replicate that form. He faced significant challenges against Chelsea’s Malo Gusto, struggling to make meaningful contributions and often looking frustrated on the pitch. His efforts to turn the tide for his team fell short, prompting Howe to substitute him in the 68th minute.
Newcastle’s ongoing issues with their wing positions continue to trouble Howe. At the end of the last season, it became evident that the team required a new right winger—someone who could match Gordon’s creativity on the left. However, the lack of a new signing has left Newcastle’s attacking options feeling limited, particularly in Gordon’s absence. Barnes’ uninspiring performance highlighted this gap, and neither Miguel Almiron nor Jacob Murphy could provide the quality needed from the right wing.
Currently, Newcastle has four senior wingers: Gordon, who is a standout talent, Barnes, who has been inconsistent, and both Murphy and Almiron, who have not consistently performed at the required level. This situation remains a significant concern for the team, emphasizing the need for action in the upcoming January transfer window. The display at Stamford Bridge underscored the urgency of signing another winger to bolster the squad, especially given the stark contrast in quality when Gordon is unavailable. Without his influence, Newcastle’s attacking capabilities are severely diminished, making it imperative that they address this issue promptly.