Anthony Gordon praises Marcus Rashford and two 'incredible' Barcelona stars as Newcastle forward explains what they do better than Man City, Liverpool & Arsenal

English international Rashford’s return to England could not have been scripted better. The forward, on loan from Manchester United, scored his first Champions League goals in nearly four years as Barcelona beat Newcastle 2-1. A header and a stunning strike in quick succession silenced St James’ Park, reminding fans of the talent that had once lit up Old Trafford.

Despite scoring his maiden Champions League goal, Anthony Gordon was quick to single out the opposition. He told TNT Sports: "Pedri and de Jong were fantastic. They made it really difficult for us to do our usual press, and they controlled the game.” His words underlined the class of Barca’s midfield, who dictated play throughout.

Speaking to Bein Sports, he admitted: “They were the best I've played against in that sense of the game. To be honest, we are not used playing against players who can keep the ball in this way. 

"We played against top teams like City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, but the way they passed the ball in midfield made it very hard for us to press."

He also praised Rashford for his standout performance: “It’s a top level. Rashford scored two goals out of nowhere. It’s got to be the same for us and take the opportunities when they’re presented to us."

The double was a breakthrough moment for Rashford, who endured a difficult end to his time at United and before going on loan to Aston Villa last season. Now thriving under Hansi Flick at Barcelona, the 27-year-old is determined to prove his place at the elite level. After the win, Rashford said he hopes to “stay for as many [seasons] as possible.”

For Newcastle, the loss was a frustrating one as Eddie Howe’s side carved out chances in the first half, with Harvey Barnes missing opportunities that could have shifted the balance. Gordon’s late strike gave the Magpies hope, but ultimately the Premier League side were undone by Barca’s superior finishing and control of key moments.

Barcelona now turn their attention to a heavyweight clash against Paris Saint-Germain at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, with Luis Enrique set to face his former club. For Newcastle, Gordon will miss the weekend’s Premier League game against Bournemouth due to suspension, but will return in midweek for the Carabao Cup tie against Bradford.