Anthony Gordon injury latest as another Newcastle player is ruled out of Man Utd game

Anthony Gordon’s absence continues to cast a shadow over Newcastle United’s preparations as Eddie Howe reveals ongoing uncertainty about the winger’s return date.

The England international has yet to resume training after sustaining hip and leg injuries during a robust challenge while on national team duty at Wembley. His continued rehabilitation makes him doubtful for Sunday’s high-stakes encounter with Manchester United at St. James’ Park.

Howe offered little optimism when pressed for updates after Newcastle’s commanding 3-0 victory over Leicester City, a result that propelled the Magpies back into fifth place. “Anthony wasn’t close to featuring tonight,” the manager admitted.

“He still hasn’t trained with the squad and is dealing with the aftermath of that heavy tackle. We’re hopeful he’ll return soon, but I can’t provide any guarantees at this stage.”

The situation compounds Newcastle’s selection headaches, with midfielder Joe Willock also ruled out of the weekend clash. Willock remains sidelined under the Premier League’s concussion protocols after taking a blow to the head during last week’s 2-1 triumph over Brentford.

Medical staff have barred him from training until completing the mandatory recovery period, leaving Howe to confirm: “Joe won’t make the Manchester United game. The protocols dictate his timeline, not our preferences.”

These setbacks arrive during Newcastle’s most congested period of the season. Following Sunday’s marquee fixture, the Magpies face Crystal Palace and Aston Villa within six days—a stretch that will test the squad’s depth and resilience.

While the team demonstrated their adaptability against Leicester, the long-term absence of creative forces like Gordon and Willock could prove problematic against higher-caliber opposition.

Harvey Barnes has seized his opportunity in Gordon’s absence, delivering consecutive impressive performances on the left flank. The former Leicester star enjoyed a triumphant return to the King Power Stadium, capping Newcastle’s victory with a well-taken goal after Joelinton’s initial effort was parried.

Barnes’ resurgence marks a significant turnaround for a player who went 12 league matches without a start prior to the Carabao Cup final.

Howe praised the winger’s growing influence: “Harvey’s progression has been exactly what we hoped to see. With consistent minutes, his confidence and decision-making have improved dramatically.

That composed finish tonight reminded everyone of his goalscoring instincts—a vital attribute for any attacking player.” The manager particularly highlighted Barnes’ defensive contributions and burgeoning partnership with right-back Tino Livramento as unexpected positives from the enforced lineup changes.

Newcastle’s medical staff now face a race against time to rehabilitate their injured stars. Gordon’s explosive pace and direct running have been instrumental this season, with his absence depriving Howe of a proven difference-maker against top-half opposition.

Willock’s box-to-box energy and late-arriving runs into the penalty area have similarly become key components of Newcastle’s midfield playbook.

The coming weeks present both challenge and opportunity. While Barnes’ form offers encouragement, the squad’s ability to maintain their European push without two key attackers may define their season.

Supporters will hope Gordon’s recovery accelerates ahead of pivotal fixtures that could determine whether Newcastle secure a return to continental competition.

For now, Howe must continue improvising—a test of his tactical flexibility and the squad’s collective spirit.

As the Magpies prepare for Manchester United’s visit, all eyes remain on the treatment room. With European qualification hanging in the balance, Newcastle’s depth will be scrutinized like never before.

The next fortnight could either expose their limitations or cement their reputation as one of the Premier League’s most resilient squads.

One thing remains certain: Howe’s men cannot afford prolonged absences from their star performers if they intend to finish the campaign strongly.