"“It was tactical,” he told BBC Radio Newcastle about Gordon's latest omission, following Sunday's 1-1 draw at the City Ground. “The team has performed well in Anthony's absence. Obviously, we have gone with a bit more solidity with Joelinton playing wide and one winger the other side just to try and strengthen us defensively, because we weren't happy with how we were defending.”"
"“Since January, really, we have been disappointed - so a change of structure really. Ant has come back to fitness. He's training well but, also, I'm looking at the future as well.”"
"Howe was clearly thinking ahead to next season with his team selection after also not opting to start Kieran Trippier, who is leaving the club at the end of the season. This was despite the former England international being the only fit recognised right-back at the club following injuries to Lewis Miley and Tino Livramento. Lewis Hall, a left-back by trade, filled in on the opposite side as a result before Trippier came on for captain Bruno Guimaraes in injury time."
Anthony Gordon was left on the bench for Newcastle United for a second consecutive week while he remained fit after a minor hip flexor issue. Eddie Howe said the decision was tactical, noting the team had performed well without Gordon and that the lineup added defensive solidity by using Joelinton wide and adjusting winger roles. Howe also said the club had been disappointed since January, prompting a change in structure. Gordon trained well but was not started, as Howe emphasized looking at the future. Howe also did not start Kieran Trippier, despite him being the only fit recognized right-back, and used Lewis Hall on the opposite side before Trippier came on late. Howe added that decisions aimed to evaluate players’ development for the future.
Read at www.bbc.com
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