Eddie Howe has provided an update on Anthony Gordon’s injury after the winger missed Newcastle’s game against Chelsea.
The Magpies were looking to improve their fortunes after an indifferent start to the season as it had been 604 minutes since they scored from open play at kick-off.
And their hopes were dealt a blow when the team sheets were announced, with Gordon absent from the Newcastle squad for the first time this season.
However, he was spotted at Stamford Bridge having traveled with his team in the hope of being able to take part.
But he wasn’t and he couldn’t even sit on the bench for a tough game in the capital, and Eddie Howe explained why before the game.
Eddie Howe has provided an update on Anthony Gordon’s (pictured) injury after he missed his team’s match against Chelsea.
Gordon traveled to the game in the hope that he would play, but he was in no condition to participate.
Howe (pictured) revealed Gordon felt something in training on Friday and was hoping to play.
“Gordon felt his groin during training on Friday,” Howe told Sky Sports. “He traveled hoping to make it to the game, but he didn’t.
“It’s a blow for sure, but Harvey (Barnes) comes in with his own qualities and I still like the team we have.”
Howe’s team got off to the worst possible start when Nicolas Jackson put Chelsea ahead thanks to good work from Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto.
Newcastle continued to find things difficult without their main man, and Barnes saw little of the ball in the early stages.
It was a far cry from what Howe had asked for before the game.
“We want to score goals, entertain and play well,” he said. ‘The last game was a big step forward.
“I think you go through phases like this, but I support our players and I have a little confidence and we will get back to normal.”
However, they tied thanks to Alexander Isak.
Harvey Barnes took Godon’s place on Newcastle’s left wing, replacing his teammate.
It was a slow start to the game for Newcastle, who fell behind, but tied in the first half.
With a win, Newcastle could have overtaken Chelsea and got their European qualification aspirations back on track after a positive early game before their decline.
Before the game, they had only two points in their last four games.
Barnes was their leading scorer entering the game with three this season, while Gordon has two to his name.
