GORDON CAN BE TONIC FOR GARETH

Southgate looks on as Toon winger takes centre stage

- Neil Squires

NEWCASTLE 1
ARSENAL 0

ANTHONY GORDON himself in contention for a first has put England call-up after settling a spiteful squabble at St James' Park in Newcastle's favour.

The disputed second-half winner grabbed the headlines but it was the covering role Gordon also delivered in a strong Newcastle defensive performance, which saw them become the first side to shut Arsenal out all season, which will have watching Gareth Southgate just as much.

After a slow start to life on Tyneside, the £45 million signing is blossoming - and showing his liking for the big occasion. Magpies head coach Eddie Howe said: "It is one of his best qualities, I think he plays the game, he doesn't play the opponent. One of the challenges when you come to a club like Newcastle is can you play in the atmosphere in the stadium in intense conditions.