Alan Shearer has responded to Anthony Gordon’s fiery criticism following their public disagreement over the Newcastle United winger’s absence from the starting lineup against Barcelona.
The debate began after Gordon was named on the bench for Newcastle’s Champions League last-16 first leg against Barcelona due to illness. The England international later hit back at criticism from pundits after scoring the winning goal in Newcastle’s 1-0 victory over Chelsea.
Anthony Gordon hits back after Barcelona criticism
Gordon had been ill in the days leading up to the Champions League clash and was only fit enough to appear from the bench during the 1-1 draw at St James’ Park.
However, Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney questioned the decision for Gordon not to start such an important match.
Speaking at the time, Shearer suggested it would take something extraordinary to keep him out of a fixture of that magnitude.
“Maybe I’m old school, but if you’re fit enough to train in the morning… it would take something extraordinary to keep myself out of this game.” — Alan Shearer
After Newcastle’s win against Chelsea, Gordon strongly rejected the criticism and described the claims surrounding his absence as “nonsense”.
“What the media guy told me was being said was complete and utter stupidity.” — Anthony Gordon
He also explained that he had been unwell for several days leading up to the match.
“I was in bed for three days, missed training, and turned up on the day of the game ready to start.” — Anthony Gordon
Eddie Howe confirms decision was medical
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe clarified that the decision to leave Gordon out of the starting XI was based on medical advice.
According to Howe, the winger had been willing to play but the coaching staff decided to limit his involvement.
“He was prepared to play but in consultation with the medical team we didn’t think he was fit.” — Eddie Howe
Gordon eventually came on during the second half as Newcastle secured a 1-1 draw ahead of the return leg in Spain.
Alan Shearer stands by original comments
Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer responded to Gordon’s criticism and admitted he enjoyed the player’s passionate reaction.
However, the Newcastle legend made it clear he would not change what he originally said.
“I love it. That’s fine. You always get the right to reply as a player.” — Alan Shearer
Even so, Shearer reiterated that illness would not have kept him out of such a high-profile match during his playing career.
“I wouldn’t change anything I said the other night.” — Alan Shearer
Gordon responds with performance against Chelsea
The Newcastle winger responded in the best possible way on the pitch, scoring the only goal as Eddie Howe’s side secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Chelsea.
His performance helped lift Newcastle into the top half of the Premier League table while also strengthening their push for European qualification.
The result also provided the perfect response to the criticism that followed the Barcelona match.
Key Insights
- Anthony Gordon missed the start against Barcelona due to illness.
- Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney criticised the decision.
- Gordon called the criticism “complete nonsense”.
- Eddie Howe confirmed the decision was based on medical advice.
- Shearer says he still stands by his original comments.
What’s Next
Newcastle now prepare for the decisive Champions League second leg against Barcelona in Spain. Gordon’s fitness and form could prove crucial as Eddie Howe’s side attempt to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
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