Anthony Gordon: Howe defends Newcastle striker after criticism from Shearer and Kane

Head coach Eddie Howe says it is his decision not to play Anthony Gordon against Barcelona after illness Newcastle United The striker was panned by critics.

Gordon has been questioned by a number of figures in the game – including Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane – after he was not in the starting line-up for the first leg of Newcastle’s Champions League round of 16 clash against Barcelona on Tuesday.

Shearer, who spoke before learning Gordon had missed training, said it would take “something extraordinary” to prevent him starting such an important match.

However, Gordon was not even able to participate in the orientation session on the morning of the match. His participation was limited to coming on as a substitute midway through the second half of the 1-1 draw.

“I have to clarify something,” Howe said Friday. “He was fully prepared to play in the match against Barcelona.

“I know there are a lot of comments. My decision not to play him was based on the fact that he was sick that morning and did not attend the training session.

He added: “He was ready to play, but after consulting with the medical team, we did not think he was ready to play.”

Gordon has since returned to training and is in contention to lead the line against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Howe believes the 25-year-old has “a lot of pressure on him” due to his England international status.

“My perception is that he faces a lot of scrutiny, but I think that comes with being a top player,” he added.

“I don’t think you can escape that in this day and age, so, maybe part of that is his history and how he ended up at this club and the clubs he played for previously.

“Of course, once you play for England, you move to a different level in terms of scrutiny and expectation, so the modern player has to put up with all those things.

“I think Ant did it well, and he’s mental enough to cut through a lot of noise. It’s one of his strengths.”