Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has suggested that Anthony Gordon may have played his last game for the club, as the forward continues to be linked with a move to Bayern Munich. Speaking ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with West Ham, Howe indicated that Gordon could again be left on the bench, with an eye on the future.
Howe stated that the team's performance in Gordon's absence has been strong, and that he is considering giving opportunities to players who will be part of the club's long-term plans. 'When you get to this stage of the season, part of what we will be doing, we'll be looking to next year, naturally,' Howe said. 'Anthony's just come back from injury. I think the team has played well in his absence and with a partial view to the future, yes.'
When asked if Bayern Munich are close to securing a deal for the 23-year-old, Howe declined to comment, saying: 'No, nothing, no updates from me. These are discussions that potentially might be happening, but not with me.' The German club are reportedly in active talks to sign the England international before the transfer window closes.
Howe also confirmed that Kieran Trippier will be given a farewell appearance at St James' Park, describing the right-back's decision to join Newcastle as a 'huge risk' that paid off. 'I think he's definitely deserving of that recognition,' Howe said. 'The actual decision to come here in the first place needs to be celebrated.'
