Monday night was largely routine and comfortable, but one worrying moment at Leicester included Eddie Howe’s post-match comments on Anthony Gordon.
After the winger was absent from the squad once again, Howe said: “Anthony wasn’t close (to being available). He hasn’t been able to train with us yet.
“He’s still feeling the effects of that tackle with England. We hope that we may see him soon, but I’ve got no certainty on that.”
Hardly encouraging comments ahead of a busy run of games at St James’ Park, but a promising update did arrive last night on the England international’s fitness.
Gordon relief on Tyneside
As of Monday night, Craig Hope reports that there were ‘fears’ the winger may be facing a ‘lengthy spell’ on the sidelines.
However, there was good news to report in his Thursday night exclusive for The Mail, revealing that the 24-year-old has made good progress this week in his recovery from a heavy knock to his hip.
It’s thought the whack suffered on international duty with England last month left him with considerable bruising around his thigh and groin, leaving him in too much pain to train with the first team or feature in our 3-0 win at Leicester.
A few days on, he has a chance of returning to the squad for Sunday’s 4.30pm clash with Manchester United, with staff on Tyneside now confident the issue is ‘not serious’ despite initial concerns.
