Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has publicly defended his decision to start Anthony Gordon on the bench for the club's Champions League last-16 match against Barcelona, stating the choice was his alone The clarification followed criticism from several pundits after Gordon appeared as a substitute in the 1-1 draw
High-profile figures, including Newcastle's all-time leading goal-scorer Alan Shearer, questioned the forward's absence from the starting lineup in what Howe had called the "biggest" game in the club's history Speaking before it was known Gordon was ill, Shearer said it would take "something extraordinary" to keep him from starting such a fixture Similar concerns were reportedly raised by Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane
In response, Howe clarified that Gordon had been unwell and was not able to participate in a team walkthrough on the morning of the match The manager stressed that the decision to limit his involvement was made for the player's welfare. "It was my decision," Howe stated, confirming Gordon was brought on in the 67th minute of the game
ISN MEDIA