Anthony Gordon has been upbeat, passionate and energetic ever since he donned the Everton jersey. Even though his first team debut in 2017, he became a regular part of the first team proceedings during the Project Restart, when he got his first Premier League to start in the feisty Merseyside derby.
After a loan at Preston North End in the second half of the 2020-21 season, new manager Rafa Benitez had a choice to make, whether to send the burgeoning youngster back on loan or keep him integrated with the squad. A few months later, Benitez would be relieved to have chosen the latter option.
Amid the injury crisis, Gordon has been one of the biggest gainers and has been a regular part of the side, most recently starting two back to back games and featuring for the entirety of the game. In games against Tottenham and Manchester City, Gordon was one of the better players on the pitch, showcasing his hard work and exploiting his energy.
Gordon is far from a finished product and needs to sharpen his skills to make a big mark on the team. There are deficiencies in his game and he needs to work on them, polish them as he continues to walk on the bridge of development.
Everton attacker Anthony Gordon speaks of his weakness observed by Benitez
Anthony Gordon spoke to Everton’s official website and revealed what Rafa Benitez said to him upon arrival. The 20 year said that Benitez paid compliments but also pointed out his weakness, areas where he needs to strengthen.
"I’ve been asked a lot about that game [game against Tottenham] because it was the first time I’d completed 90 minutes at senior level. To be honest, I hardly played 90 minutes in my age-group teams. I’ve never really had an engine. The manager identified that as soon as he came.He paid me a lot of compliments but said my stamina wasn’t up to scratch. And he was absolutely right. I am quick and explosive and those types of players rarely have stamina. I have to find the balance for what is required in the First Team, where the level and physicality are so high, and I am starting to get it right. (via club’s official website)"
Gordon has 10 Everton appearances under his belt this season, but is yet to score his first senior goal. The attacker has come close on several occasions but has failed to get on the score sheet. There were chances against Tottenham Hotspur and but his effort was either blocked or saved.
The local boy is still waiting for his first goal and spoke about how much he desires to get that first goal and live that surreal feeling. There is uncertainty over Demarai Gray’s injury and if he remains unavailable, Gordon could once again play an important role against Brentford.
Gordon could be in contention to start the game as well and if does manage to get his first goal on Sunday, he could send the away stand into raptures. It would be iconic if his goal helps Everton get a positive result and put an end to the horrendous run of form.
"I haven’t scored my first senior goal yet. To say I want to change that would be an understatement. It is all I can think about. Seriously, even if I’m walking my dog, I’m imagining what it will be like to score for Everton. It is a dream and just thinking about it gives me goosebumps.If I could choose how to get off the mark, I’d cut in from the left and curl one into the far corner. That is my signature goal, one I scored a lot as a youngster. I’ve got the celebration planned, as well, but I’m keeping that to myself."
Gordon is a bright youngster who has been born and bred on the blue half of Merseyside. Fans have a connection with him and many are banking him to become Everton’s big star in the years to come.
Can Anthony Gordon get his first Everton goal against Brentford?