Eddie Howe provides an explanation for the decision made by Anthony Gordon and the change made by Newcastle United in their match against Liverpool, following the exclusion of Alexander Isak.

Eddie Howe provides an explanation for the decision made by Anthony Gordon and the change made by Newcastle United in their match against Liverpool, following the exclusion of Alexander Isak.

Alexander Isak was not included in the squad to face Liverpool due to a groin injury. In his place, Callum Wilson was named to the starting lineup for his first Premier League appearance of the season. Alexis MacAllister and Dominik Szoboszlai scored in each half as Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory, thereby extending their lead at the summit of the Premier League table to 13 points.

Howe altered his team’s formation as a result of Wilson’s inclusion in the starting lineup in lieu of Isak. Anthony Gordon was positioned directly behind Wilson in the middle, while Joe Willock was deployed out wide on the left. Gordon had previously caused Liverpool issues by operating on the left flank, scoring in each of Newcastle’s most recent two matches against The Reds at St James’ Park.

“We made a late decision around midday today because we just didn’t feel right in his groin.” Therefore, we were unwilling to assume the risk, as we have an abundance of significant contests scheduled. “However, this necessitated a tactical reorganisation, which justified our decision to rearrange our plans.” We incorporated Callum into the game and executed a unique strategy.

I was satisfied with the appearance of our system and the shape of the team; I had no reservations.Howe elaborated on the formation adjustment, stating, “I believe it was challenging to request that Callum play independently.” We sought to provide him with assistance and encouragement, as well as to remain competitive in the game and to submit enquiries to Liverpool.

“I believe that the decision to play with two players up there did not have a detrimental impact on our defence. I believed that it provided us with a twin attack, and there were several extremely dangerous counter-attack moments and dangerous situations that we failed to capitalise on.” Newcastle United suffers yet another loss at Anfield.

Newcastle’s current position in the Premier League table is sixth, two points behind Chelsea in fifth. “We had opportunities and moments in the opposite direction; however, we were not clinical enough when those few opportunities did come our way.” It is possible that we were also lacking in the final ball.

“Our team and our objectives are always the primary focus, but it is imperative that you attempt to mitigate their significant threats.” In general, I believed that we executed that task effectively; however, their counterattack’s velocity and quality are never entirely under our control, and this can be catastrophic.

However, in general, I believe that we executed our defence effectively. Newcastle’s subsequent match is against Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup on Sunday, followed by their return to Premier League action against West Ham United on March 10. Following that, Liverpool will participate in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on March 16th.