Paying the penalty at Newcastle United

For some time now, I've believed that elite teams ought to have multiple players designated as penalty takers.

When penalties are given, they should be entrusted to specific players who are both confident and skilled enough to handle the pressure of taking the shot.

Before Alexander Isak missed a penalty against Burnley at Turf Moor last season, Newcastle United had not failed to convert a penalty in the Premier League since 2021.

Anthony Gordon has now joined the list of players who have missed a penalty in the Premier League, as his attempt was denied at Goodison Park. It’s clear that both of these players were the chosen ones for taking penalties before this incident.

Due to Callum Wilson's frequent absences, Isak had been confidently scoring penalties until he finally missed one.

Looking back, it's easy to see things more clearly, but I'm left questioning whether it was wise for Anthony Gordon to take penalty responsibilities against Everton, his old team. Given the circumstances, his feelings were bound to be intense.

I've observed that Arsenal has recently implemented a 'horses for courses' approach, where penalty kicks are taken by players such as Saka, Odegaard, and Havertz.

I understand that everyone can occasionally miss a penalty kick from 12 yards. However, in today’s world, where every stadium is equipped with cameras and every detail is scrutinized after the game, most elite goalkeepers likely have an easier time preparing for these situations.

Jordan Pickford likely realized that following Anthony Gordon’s impressive penalty against Manchester City the week before, which had garnered a lot of analysis and focus, Flash might attempt to place his penalty in the opposite corner this time.

Pickford confidently dove to his left before the ball was kicked. Since Gordon had already chosen the direction for his shot, this made it an easier save for him.

Wilson, Isak, Gordon, and Fabian Schar are all skilled and reliable penalty shooters. I’m also confident that players such as Lewis Hall, Tino Livramento, and even Sandro Tonali would be eager to step up if given the chance.

When it comes to penalties, I'd really appreciate it if United could adopt a more varied approach, similar to how Arsenal does it, moving forward.

I've put together a brief list of the five top 'standard' penalty kickers I've observed over the past 50 years, beginning with one of our own.

Two of these athletes played as right-backs.

Throughout their entire careers, these five guys rarely made mistakes.

Tommy Craig, formerly with Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle United.

Ray Stewart (West Ham United) Ray Stewart is a former footballer who played for West Ham United. He made a significant impact during his time with the club, showcasing his skills and dedication on the pitch. Known for his strong defensive abilities and leadership qualities, Stewart became a key figure in the team. Fans remember him for his commitment and contributions to the club's success during his career.

Gary McAllister, who played for Leicester City, Leeds United, Coventry City, and Liverpool.

Naturally, there have been others who remained calm under pressure when taking penalties from 12 yards. Players such as Alan Shearer, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Danny Murphy, and James Milner all boast impressive records when it comes to spot-kicks.

Recently, both Harry Kane and Ivan Toney have demonstrated that they are skilled experts in this area.

As Newcastle United embarks on what we hope will be a successful new chapter, I would like us to take a different approach whenever we get an opportunity for an open shot at goal, even if it's just for now.

Everton and Newcastle played to a scoreless draw on Saturday, October 5, at 5:30 PM.

(Statistics from BBC Sport)

Newcastle had the ball for 67% of the match, while Everton controlled it for 33% of the time.

Newcastle took a total of 14 shots, while Everton managed 8.

Newcastle had 3 shots on goal, while Everton managed 2.

Newcastle had 10 corner kicks while Everton had none.

Newcastle made 42 attempts in the box, while Everton managed just 12.

Newcastle United lineup against Everton:

Here's a revised version of the blog section: The players on the field included Pope, Trippier (substituted for Livramento at the 71st minute), Schar, Burn, Hall, Joelinton, Bruno, Tonali (replaced by Longstaff in the 71st minute), Barnes (who came off for Almiron in the 62nd minute), Gordon, and Jacob Murphy (who was substituted by Willock in the 69th minute).

Krafth, Osula, Kelly, Ruddy, and Vlachodimos

(Everton 0, Newcastle 0 – Player ratings and insights on every Newcastle United player – Read MORE HERE)

(This only deepens my admiration for Anthony Gordon – Check it out HERE)

(Everton 0 Newcastle 0 – Immediate response from a Newcastle United supporter/writer – Check it out HERE)

Here’s the confirmed match schedule for Newcastle United, covering the period up to the end of November:

Saturday, October 19 – Newcastle taking on Brighton at 3 PM.

Sunday, October 27 – Chelsea vs. Newcastle (2 PM) on Sky Sports

Wednesday, October 30 - Newcastle versus Chelsea (7:45 PM) on Sky Sports+

Saturday, November 2nd – Newcastle takes on Arsenal at 12:30 PM, live on TNT Sports.

Sunday, November 10 – Nottingham Forest vs. Newcastle United (2 PM) on Sky Sports.

Monday, November 25th – Newcastle takes on West Ham at 8 PM, live on Sky Sports.

Saturday, November 30 – Crystal Palace versus Newcastle