Newcastle United’s difficult week took another frustrating turn as Eddie Howe confirmed a fresh injury concern following the disappointing 3-1 defeat to West Ham.
The Magpies’ boss revealed that Anthony Gordon had been struggling with a hip issue during the match, which contributed to his decision to substitute the winger in the second half.
The update came as a worrying sign for Newcastle fans, especially with key fixtures looming and the team already battling poor away form.
Speaking after the defeat, Howe admitted that the team lacked intensity and physical presence throughout the game.
He said he felt something wasn’t right with the overall balance and energy of the side and that changes were necessary to spark improvement. “I just felt the feel of the team was wrong and needed to try and get some energy on the pitch.
We were lacking in physicality today,” Howe explained. He then added, “Anthony was feeling his hip slightly. There were some tactical changes there as well to try and get a different feeling on the pitch.”
Any absence for Gordon would come as a big blow to Newcastle United. The 24-year-old has been a consistent performer and one of the side’s standout players this season, starting every Premier League fixture when available.
He has missed only three league matches so far, all due to suspension after being sent off in the 3-2 loss to Liverpool earlier in the campaign.
His pace, directness, and willingness to press have been vital components of Howe’s system, and losing him at a time when confidence is fragile could further complicate Newcastle’s momentum.
The Magpies’ struggles away from home continue to be a major concern. Despite strong form at St James’ Park, Newcastle have yet to register a single Premier League win on the road this season.
Their performances have lacked control, discipline, and sharpness away from Tyneside, and fans have grown increasingly frustrated by the contrast in results.
Now, with a crucial Champions League fixture against Athletic Bilbao in midweek before a tricky trip to Brentford next weekend, Howe’s side face another test of their resilience and focus.
Brentford, meanwhile, will view Newcastle’s struggles and Gordon’s potential absence as a boost ahead of their clash at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Keith Andrews’ men are eager to bounce back after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, and with no midweek commitments, they will have extra time to prepare.
Andrews admitted his side fell below their usual standards in that game, expressing frustration at their lack of sharpness and conviction.
“It was a game of very few chances,” Andrews said. “The first goal was a set-piece where they got first and second contact, which we can’t be happy about because we set very high standards for ourselves with set-pieces.
We didn’t hit the heights that we have in recent weeks, individually or collectively, but credit to the opposition they made it difficult and tried to stifle the game. We huffed and puffed a little and didn’t really show the conviction we needed.”
The Bees have been strong at home under Andrews and will sense an opportunity to capitalise on Newcastle’s away-day troubles. Since moving to the Magpies, Gordon has faced Brentford four times in the Premier League, winning two, drawing one, and losing one. His presence and influence could prove crucial again if he recovers in time to feature.
Howe and his staff will be closely monitoring his fitness ahead of the trip, hoping his hip problem is nothing serious.
For Newcastle, this latest setback comes at a challenging moment in the season. After the emotional high of their recent home victories, the defeat to West Ham served as a harsh reminder of their inconsistency.
The squad will need to show character and determination to turn things around quickly, especially with two big matches coming in quick succession. Fans will be hoping Gordon’s issue is minor, as the winger’s energy and drive have become essential to the team’s attacking rhythm.
As the Magpies prepare for Brentford, the pressure is building. The next few days will test not only their fitness but also their mentality.
Howe’s side need a response, and if Gordon is unavailable, others must step up. For Brentford, the situation could hardly be more ideal extra rest, home advantage, and an opponent vulnerable on their travels. The stage is set for another intriguing Premier League battle.
