Legendary former Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer has doubled down on his comments regarding Anthony Gordon's absence from the starting XI against Barcelona. After Gordon strongly denied suggestions he was unwilling to play, labelling the claims as "nonsense", Shearer has publicly stood by his initial criticism of the winger.

The drama began when Anthony Gordon was omitted from Newcastle’s starting line-up for their massive Champions League last-16 first leg against Barcelona last Tuesday. Despite the magnitude of the occasion, the winger was only fit enough for a place on the bench, sparking a wave of criticism from high-profile pundits who questioned his commitment and professional conduct on the night, claims to which the Magpies' man has now emphatically responded.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has launched a staunch defence of Anthony Gordon after the forward faced sharp criticism from several Premier League legends. Despite being sidelined from the starting XI against Barcelona due to illness, Gordon’s decision to occupy a place on the bench was questioned by high-profile pundits. Howe has now moved to clarify the medical reality of the situation while hailing the England international's elite competitive mentality.

Thomas Tuchel has been urged to snub the likes of Cole Palmer and Phil Foden by picking “world-beater” Marcus Rashford on the left wing for England at the 2026 World Cup. Former Three Lions star Lee Sharpe has told GOAL the Manchester United academy graduate, who is currently on loan at Barcelona, possesses qualities that his rivals for an international starting berth do not have.

Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool, among others, have been told how much it will cost to lure Newcastle's star players away from St. James' Park this summer. A host of key Magpies players have been linked with departures in recent months as Premier League rivals seek to exploit their sub-par season to boost their own respective squads.

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has issued a prickly response to rumours linking Anthony Gordon with a big money transfer away from St. James' Park. Gordon is reportedly on Liverpool's radar as the Reds weigh up a move for the England international in a bid to rectify their left wing issues. The defending champions aren't the only side reportedly keen on the former Everton man, however.