Alan Shearer calls out Newcastle star and says he’s ‘not the same player’ this season and has ‘improved’

# Shearer’s Seal of Approval: Anthony Gordon, Newcastle’s Relentless Spark

Under the floodlights of St. James’ Park, Anthony Gordon is embodying the unyielding Geordie spirit that has long defined Newcastle United’s soul. The 24-year-old winger, a £40 million coup from Everton in January 2023, has erupted into the 2025-26 season like a black-and-white thunderbolt. With two goals and three assists in Newcastle’s opening four Premier League fixtures—capped by a blistering solo run and finish in last Saturday’s 3-2 comeback win over Southampton—Gordon has been the heartbeat of Eddie Howe’s high-octane attack. Thrust into an unfamiliar central role amid Alexander Isak’s protracted transfer saga, he’s not just adapting; he’s thriving, helping propel the Magpies to a blistering start with 10 points from 12, sitting third in the table.

Alan Shearer, Newcastle’s immortal No. 9 and the Premier League’s record goalscorer, has been effusive in his praise for the boyhood Toon fan turned talisman. On Match of the Day, the 55-year-old legend singled out Gordon after the Southampton thriller: “Anthony Gordon is a proper handful—pace to burn, directness that terrifies defenders, and now goals from deep too. Filling in up top with Isak away? He’s done the very best he can, grafting like a dog and delivering moments of magic. If he keeps this up, he’s England squad material, no doubt.” Shearer’s words, delivered with that familiar Tyneside gravel, echo his post-match nod after the season-opening 1-1 draw at Aston Villa, where Gordon’s tireless pressing and chance creation stood out amid the chaos.

Gordon’s ascent is a redemption arc laced with grit. After a slow start last term—hampered by a red card in the Tyne-Wear derby—he finished with 11 goals and 10 assists, earning a new long-term contract. This season, with Isak’s strike action forcing improvisation, Gordon’s versatility shines. His 92% pass accuracy, 18 key passes, and five successful dribbles per game (per Opta) have unlocked Newcastle’s fluid 4-3-3, linking seamlessly with Bruno Guimarães and Valentino Livramento. “Alan’s the king here,” Gordon beamed post-match. “His praise? It’s fuel. I’m a lad from the training ground; this is for the fans who’ve stuck with me.”

For a club nursing the scars of Isak’s potential £100 million exit—rumors swirl of Arsenal and Manchester United circling—Gordon’s emergence is a silver lining. As Newcastle prepare for a Champions League bow against Barcelona midweek, Shearer’s endorsement feels like a rallying cry. In a squad blending Saudi-backed ambition with homegrown fire, Gordon isn’t just performing; he’s igniting a dynasty. The Toon Army, roaring from the Gallowgate End, sense history in the making.