Anthony Gordon, the young forward who transferred from Everton to Newcastle United in January 2023, found himself at the center of a social media storm after missing a crucial penalty for Newcastle. The miss occurred during an intense match, and despite his efforts to perform, Gordon’s failure to convert the penalty led to a wave of ridicule, particularly from fans of his former club, Everton.
Everton supporters have had a rocky relationship with Gordon since his departure. Many Everton fans felt betrayed by his decision to leave during a challenging period for the club, where they were fighting relegation. His exit to Newcastle, which involved a substantial fee of around £45 million, added fuel to the fire. While some understood his desire for a fresh start, others saw it as abandoning a sinking ship, leading to lingering resentment.
The penalty miss offered these fans an opportunity to express their feelings, and they did so harshly. Social media was filled with mocking comments and memes, with Everton fans taking delight in his failure. Some posts went as far as to label him a “traitor” or “overrated,” while others simply took pleasure in the schadenfreude of watching a former player falter on a big stage. The intensity of the ridicule raised concerns about the toxicity in football fan culture, particularly in how former players are treated once they move to rival clubs.
While the online attacks were primarily driven by Everton fans, there was also a wider conversation among football pundits and fans regarding the pressure young players like Gordon face. At just 23, Gordon has already dealt with significant scrutiny due to his high-profile transfer and the expectations that come with playing for a club like Newcastle, which aims for top-tier success.
Gordon’s response to the miss and the criticism has been mature. In post-match interviews, he acknowledged the disappointment of missing the penalty but expressed determination to move forward and learn from the experience. Newcastle United has continued to stand by him, with manager Eddie Howe offering words of support, emphasizing that setbacks are part of a footballer’s growth.
The incident highlights the emotional volatility of football fandom, where players can be hero-worshipped one moment and vilified the next. Gordon’s challenge now lies in overcoming the pressure and proving himself as a key figure for Newcastle.
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