Howe has spoken to Gordon about league form but can't knock desire

AND UNITED ATTACKER IS NOT THE ONLY ONE

- By SEAN MCCORMICK

IF there was any doubt Eddie Howe replacing Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon at halftime on Sunday could be interpreted as sending his fleet-footed winger a message, they were eradicated last night.

Without publicly lambasting his player or throwing him under the bus, Howe calmly explained they have had a number of conversations about his form this season but admitted the challenge for the England international is to improve his Premier League performances.

Reflecting on the decision to withdraw Nick Woltemade and Gordon at halftime during Sunday's 3-1 defeat to West Ham United, Howe said in his pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday's Champions League clash against Athletic Bilbao: "With Nick, we're well aware that we've thrust him into every game near enough.