Everton winger Anthony Gordon’s suspension for this weekend’s Premier League clash is a “big blow” for the side.
That is according to journalist Pete O’Rourke, who was speaking to This is Futbol ahead of this weekend’s Premier League fixtures.
The 21-year-old, who has been described as “fearless” by Alan Shearer, earned his fifth booking of the season in last weekend’s 2-1 defeat at the hands of Manchester United after a challenge on Bruno Fernandes, earning him a one-game suspension.
Everton manager Frank Lampard has admitted that he has had a conversation with the wide-man about his discipline on the pitch in order to prevent the Liverpool-born starlet from missing any more games.
And O’Rourke believes that whilst it is a blow to lose him for Saturday’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur, his disciplinary record is symbolic of the “fighting spirit” in the Toffees side.
He said: “It is a big blow. We know how important he is to the way Everton set up.
“Anthony Gordon getting five bookings already, [it] will be a concern for Frank Lampard to see him get such an early suspension in the season.
“But that just shows what type of character he is. He wants to be in there amongst it and he really sums up the fighting spirit of this Everton team.”
TIF Thoughts on O’Rourke’s comments…
We believe that Gordon’s absence will be felt keenly throughout the Everton side, with the winger being an influential presence on the pitch this season – as shown by his stats.
Although he has only scored two goals in nine Premier League appearances this season, it’s his youthful energy and off-the-ball work that impacts the team so much.
This is demonstrated by the 21-year-old ranking in the top 3% of attacking midfielders/wingers for blocks (2.04) and tackles (2.45) per 90 minutes, whilst also being in the top 4% for pressures per 90 (23.25) over the last 365 days, according to FBref.
Therefore, we feel Gordon will be a big miss in what is likely to be a tough trip to north London on Saturday evening.