Howe on Barcelona disappointment, Gordon's fitness and Joelinton's form

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe says the squad that held Barcelona 1-1 in midweek will be unchanged for Saturday’s Premier League trip to Chelsea, with no injured players expected to return in time for the 17:30 GMT kick-off at Stamford Bridge.

Addressing the media on Friday, Howe moved to clarify Anthony Gordon’s situation after the winger was left out of the starting line-up against Barcelona. “He absolutely was willing to play,” Howe stressed. “It was my decision not to start him based on the fact he was ill that morning and hadn’t attended training. He was prepared to play.” Gordon, who trained on Thursday and “feels better,” entered the match as a substitute, prompting public criticism from pundits including Alan Shearer and Roy Keane.

Howe praised the 22-year-old’s mentality, describing him as “a real competitor” who is “very single-minded, very focused on his development.” The manager added: “I can only speak really glowingly of him this year. He’s probably in the best moment that he’s been this season currently.”

On the emotional toll of conceding a stoppage-time equaliser to the Spanish giants, Howe reported the players are “pretty good” and “used to positive responses to difficult moments,” insisting the focus must now switch to league duties.

Chelsea, he warned, present “mental challenges” and remain “one of the toughest away games we’ll have,” demanding a swift reset from European exploits.

Howe also highlighted the resurgence of Joelinton, saying: “When he plays like he has the last few games, we’re a different team because of it. He’s an outstanding player… a player that really lifts the team when he’s in a good place.”

With the same 20-man group available and no fresh injury concerns, Newcastle will aim to carry the momentum of their Camp Nou performance into west London.