Tony Scott believes that Anthony Gordon is now a big issue for Frank Lampard and Everton amid his current form.
Everton fans will have been very worried over the summer as Gordon started the season well with two goals in five league games, which came as there was a lot of interest from other Premier League clubs, with a £60m bid even being discussed.
However, many at the club may well be wishing they had taken one of the offers that were put their way, as he now hasn’t registered a goal involvement since 30th August, while his underlying numbers don’t make for pleasant reading, either – making just 18 progressive passes and only four into the 18-yard box (as per FBref).
He’s also not completed 90 minutes since the 1-1 draw against Leeds United, hinting at a potential underlying problem.
Scott bemoaned Gordon’s form and fitness on the All Together Now podcast and believes it is now causing an issue for Lampard.
He said: “I think Anthony Gordon’s form is a massive concern. It’s a huge drop-off considering the heights he was at against Brentford and Leeds away.
“He was only in the team because he was playing up front on his own. He was playing in that role because we were lacking a forward, so that’s why he was in the team.
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“Since that Merseyside derby he started, he hasn’t finished a game of football for Everton – that is a concern in itself. He looks absolutely shot after 10 minutes. His fitness concerns are an issue, in my opinion.
“I’m just worried for him. I’m not sure if this move to Chelsea has played on his mind, he hasn’t been the same player.”
TIF Thoughts on Gordon’s form…
While not playing well and being out of form is something most players experience a few times throughout a season, seemingly being unfit and unable to finish games is something that won’t be allowed to slide by Evertonians and Lampard.
If it’s true that Gordon is indeed looking out on his feet after the first 10 minutes, his place in the team certainly should be far from guaranteed, and coupled with his poor form, the winger would have no complaints if Lampard was to drop him for the upcoming games. However, he appears to have the backing of his teammates, with James Tarkowski labelling him ‘different class‘ not too long ago, so there’s clearly still a top player in there.
While keeping Gordon at the club despite some big-money offers from several clubs over the summer looked to be a good business decision from Everton, if he fails to reach those heights again and lets transfer talk remain in his head, they could have a very difficult player to manage, coach and get firing on all cylinders, which would see their summer decision hugely backfire.