Former Everton defender Martin Keown has slammed the attitude of Anthony Gordon, claiming that the 21-year-old “had his head turned” by Newcastle United.
Gordon looks set to join Eddie Howe’s side in a deal worth a reported £45 million, following the winger missing 3 days of training at Finch Farm in an attempt to force the move.
Indeed, Gordon’s attitude throughout last season endeared him to Everton fans, with the attacker’s work rate and application assisting the Blues in beating the drop as Everton fought for Premier League survival.
However, both the attitude and performances from the academy graduate have left a lot to be desired this campaign, with the Toffees once again in a relegation scrap, prompting ex-Everton defender Martin Keown slam the England U21 international.
Keown remarked, “He wanted to go to Chelsea – talk of a bid – that’s turned his head clearly. Now there’s talk of Newcastle and that’s turning his head as well.
“He’s got a football club where he is. He needs to just concentrate and do his best where he is right now.
These young players are pampered so much because they’re on a pedestal all through their life.
“He’s there and he’s catered for, every need is catered for. How do you then have a normal type personality when he doesn’t get his way?
“It’s almost like spoiled child behaviour. Clubs have to parent in the right way.”
With just 3 goals in 16 appearences for the Toffees this season, Gordon has hardly set the Premier League alight and after a period of worrying inactivity in the transfer window, the winger’s fee should allow Everton to spend before Tuesday’s deadline.
Few Evertonians would have questioned a £45 million fee for Gordon, whose ability and ego seem to be in inverse proportion, though the nature of his departure leaves a sour taste.