Everton fans have been calling for young winger Anthony Gordon to get a chance in the first-team for nearly a year now and he recently was handed his first start in the Premier League this season.
Gordon came in for the clash with Sheffield United, Carlo Ancelotti leaving the more experienced Bernard on the bench.
However, it was not a game to remember for our great hope. The explosive wideman struggled to find his place among the Blades system and the wet and slippery conditions did not help his cause either.
He was hauled off for the Brazilian, who played a role in Gylfi Sigurdsson’s winning goal, and found himself on the bench for the drab 1-0 loss to West Ham United in Everton’s next outing.
So what next for Gordon?
It might be time for the 19-year-old to find himself some action with David Unsworth’s under-23 set-up once again.
This does not necessarily mean a demotion for the lad. Gordon should remain with the Everton first-team throughout the week and train with the likes of James Rodriguez, Richarlison and co.
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He can learn from that experience but his lack of playing time is alarming.
A loan deal does not currently look likely but dropping down and playing for Unsworth’s under-23s now and again could offer him the perfect chance to get some game legs and will hopefully help him have more of an impact when, inevitably, he is given that next chance in the Everton first-team.
At present, Gordon is likely growing impatient with his lack of game time and Unsworth’s side would certainly benefit from his occasional presence.
He acts as an aspirational figure for the younger lads in the team and he would also likely improve results for Unsworth’s side, given his ability.
Just 45 minutes here and there, to keep Gordon ticking over, as long as Everton can do so in relation to Covid-19 restrictions.
A return to the under-23s does not need to mean a demotion for Gordon. It can actually help him become an even better player.