Anthony Gordon explains why his quality surprised Eddie Howe at Newcastle

Anthony Gordon believes Eddie Howe did not fully appreciate his technical quality when Newcastle United signed him from Everton, with the England international claiming his pressing ability often overshadowed other parts of his game.

The 25-year-old left Newcastle for Barcelona in an €80million deal this summer after three years at St James’ Park. Gordon departed with 39 goals and 28 assists from 152 appearances, a Carabao Cup winner’s medal and an established place in the England setup.

His Barcelona career has also started impressively, producing five assists in his opening five appearances.

Speaking to El Pais, Gordon explained that his work rate has sometimes caused people to underestimate his technical ability.

“Because I press, people focus heavily on that,” Gordon said. “I think my actual quality surprises a lot of people when they see me up close.”

He believes that happened after Howe brought him to Newcastle from Everton.

“Eddie Howe signed me from Everton to run and press. And then, when I got there, it was like: ‘Oh, you’re actually a good player.’”

Gordon considers his football intelligence his most underrated quality and believes it has helped him adapt to Barcelona.

“If you aren’t intelligent in this team, you’re lost,” he explained. “You have to make good decisions all the time.”

His five assists demonstrate the creative qualities Gordon believes can sometimes be overlooked.

The winger admitted he could potentially shoot more frequently but naturally prefers making what he considers the correct decision rather than prioritising his own goals.

“Maybe I should shoot at goal more or be a little less generous, but that’s not in my nature,” he said.

Gordon has also been impressed by new teammate Lamine Yamal, particularly the youngster’s mentality and defensive work rate.

Away from football, Gordon described himself as an “old soul” and revealed he would like to start a book club, although he doubts his younger Barcelona teammates would be interested.

His move to Spain represents a major change, but Gordon clearly believes the intelligence and technical ability Newcastle discovered after signing him are precisely what can make him successful at Barcelona.

Gordon will look to maintain his productive start at Barcelona after quickly establishing himself as a creative presence in their attack.

His performances will also provide an early indication of whether the qualities he developed and displayed at Newcastle can translate into consistent success at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.