adminAnthony Gordon has strongly responded to criticism from Wayne Rooney and other pundits following claims he was unwilling to feature in Newcastle United’s recent Champions League showdown with FC Barcelona.
The winger was left out of the starting XI by manager Eddie Howe after missing training due to illness, though he was named on the bench and introduced in the second half for William Osula.
Newcastle appeared set for a memorable 1–0 win at St James’ Park, only for Lamine Yamal to snatch a dramatic late equaliser from the penalty spot.
Club legend Alan Shearer questioned Gordon’s absence, insisting it would take something extraordinary to miss such a crucial European fixture. Rooney also raised eyebrows, suggesting Gordon’s pre-match behavior was inconsistent with someone genuinely unwell.
After returning to action and scoring the winner in Newcastle’s 1–0 Premier League victory over Chelsea FC, Gordon didn’t hold back. Speaking to BBC Sport, he dismissed Rooney’s remarks as “complete and utter stupidity,” firmly rejecting the idea that he avoided playing in such a major match.
Gordon explained that he had been informed before kickoff that he wouldn’t start—a decision he disagreed with but respected.
He also denied claims about refusing to greet pundits, clarifying that he isolated himself due to illness and even changed alone in a separate room.
Despite being sidelined for several days, Gordon insisted he was willing to play, though the final call rested with Howe. Now fully recovered, he is eager to make an impact in the return leg at Camp Nou, where Newcastle will battle Barcelona for a place in the Champions League quarter-finals.
admin
