Eddie Howe, manager of Newcastle United, has made a decision after star striker Anthony Gordon refused to share penalty-taking duties with teammates.
Eddie Howe, manager of the "Magpies" Newcastle United, confirmed he wants Anthony Gordon, the in-form forward, to continue playing selfishly after his outstanding performance that helped the team crush Qarabag 6-1 in the UEFA Champions League playoff round.
The 24-year-old striker scored four goals in that match, bringing his season total to 10 in the role of main striker. He finished the game by taking a penalty kick, ignoring the request from captain Kieran Trippier, who wanted Nick Woltemade to take the penalty instead.
When asked if he wanted Gordon to play selfishly, Howe replied, "There are many positives from that incident. Moments like that are often blown out of proportion. It was a very minor matter."
"It's great for Gordon to be so determined to score at every opportunity, and that's what you want from every player. So I have no problem with him."
"And I have no problem with Trippier at all. He was thinking about the team and trying to lead in his own way, being a committed leader at every moment. I think it was really good for everyone involved."
"The good thing is we scored the penalty, which is another positive. I think it shows all the players care and want to perform well."
Newcastle is scheduled to visit second-placed Manchester City in the English Premier League this Saturday at 03:00 GMT+7.