Anthony Gordon in action for Newcastle United in 2025

Eddie Howe gives Anthony Gordon fitness update before Chelsea clash

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Mar 13, 2026, 11:28 am
0

Image: IMAGO / NurPhoto

Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon is expected to be available for this weekend’s Premier League clash against Chelsea after recovering from illness, according to head coach Eddie Howe.

The 25 year old was a surprise inclusion on the bench during Newcastle’s Champions League last 16 first leg against Barcelona earlier this week. Gordon had trained on the morning of the match but was not selected to start after experiencing illness before kick off.

He was introduced during the second half, replacing William Osula in the 67th minute as Newcastle pushed for a result before eventually conceding a late equaliser.

Anthony Gordon fitness update ahead of Chelsea vs Newcastle

Speaking ahead of the trip to Stamford Bridge on Saturday 14 March 2026, Howe confirmed Gordon had returned to full training and is expected to be available for selection.

“He trained yesterday, he is fine. He was willing to play in the game. It was my decision not to start him as he had been ill that morning.” — Eddie Howe

Gordon has been Newcastle’s leading scorer this season with 15 goals across all competitions. His return to full fitness will therefore be important as the club balances domestic and European commitments.

The winger’s pace and direct attacking style have been key elements of Newcastle’s attacking play during the campaign.

Bruno Guimaraes nearing return for Newcastle

Howe also provided an update on club captain Bruno Guimaraes, who remains unavailable for the match against Chelsea but is progressing in his recovery.

The Brazilian midfielder has been sidelined recently but is now closing in on a return to action.

“Bruno is back on Monday. His plan is he wants to come to Barcelona, not in a playing capacity, but to support the lads.” — Eddie Howe

Howe indicated that the midfielder has been working intensely on his rehabilitation and could return shortly after the upcoming international break.

“He has been working incredibly hard on his recovery. I’d like to think by the time the international break has ended he will be back ready for us.” — Eddie Howe

Lewis Miley will also remain unavailable for the Chelsea fixture.

Champions League focus continues for Newcastle

Newcastle’s immediate attention turns to their Premier League meeting with Chelsea before preparing for the second leg of their Champions League tie against Barcelona at the Camp Nou.

Having followed Newcastle’s recent matches closely, Gordon’s availability could prove particularly important given the intensity of the upcoming schedule.

However, it remains too early to determine whether he will start both matches as Howe manages the squad’s workload across competitions.

Key Insights

  • Anthony Gordon has recovered from illness and trained ahead of the Chelsea match.
  • The Newcastle forward scored 15 goals this season across all competitions.
  • Eddie Howe confirmed Gordon was only benched against Barcelona due to illness.
  • Bruno Guimaraes is nearing a return but will miss the Chelsea fixture.
  • The Newcastle captain could return after the international break.

What’s Next

Newcastle travel to Stamford Bridge on Saturday 14 March 2026 to face Chelsea in the Premier League. Attention will then shift quickly to the Champions League second leg against Barcelona at the Camp Nou. The Magpies will hope to have Gordon fully available while continuing to monitor Guimaraes’ recovery ahead of a potential return after the international break.

Will Anthony Gordon play a decisive role in Newcastle’s upcoming fixtures against Chelsea and Barcelona?

0 Comments

First read message

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Football Place