Anthony Gordon: Howe defends Newcastle forward after Shearer and Keane criticism
By Ciaran Kelly
Published on March 13, 2026.
Newcastle United's head coach, Eddie Howe, defended his decision not to start Anthony Gordon against Barcelona following criticism from pundits including Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney, and Roy Keane. Gordon had been ill and was not able to participate in a walkthrough session on the morning of the match. Howe stated that Gordon was prepared to play but was deemed unfit by the medical team. Gordon has since returned to training and is in contention to lead the line against Chelsea.
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