Eddie Howe confirmed it was his decision to omit Anthony Gordon from the starting line-up during the Champions League match against Barcelona. The Newcastle United head coach stated the forward was unwell before the fixture, per Sky Sports. Pundits Alan Shearer and Roy Keane had previously questioned the player's application after he appeared as a second-half substitute in the European tie.
Howe dismissed suggestions of a lack of effort and insisted he was protecting the 25-year-old's fitness. Gordon had missed training sessions leading up to the game due to illness, according to The Guardian. The England international replaced Harvey Barnes in the 68th minute but could not prevent a defeat for the Magpies.
Newcastle United currently occupy ninth position in the Premier League table following a recent loss to Arsenal. Howe emphasised that Gordon remains a vital part of the first-team squad as they prepare for domestic duties. The club next faces a trip to Crystal Palace on Sunday, per the Premier League.
