The official reason why Anthony Gordon misses Newcastle United's FA Cup clash vs Birmingham City

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has made nine changes from the 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg win over Arsenal in midweek. Nick Pope starts in goal behind a back four of Tino Livramento, Emil Krafth, Dan Burn and Matt Targett.

Burn retains his place at centre-back as does Bruno Guimaraes in midfield. The Brazilian lines up alongside Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley, while Joe Willock, Will Osula and Callum Wilson form the attack.

But Sven Botman and Gordon have dropped out of the matchday squad entirely.

Anthony Gordon absence from Newcastle United squad vs Birmingham City

Howe revealed Botman in his pre-match press conference would miss the visit to St Andrew’s but wasn’t asked about Gordon.

"I don't think he'll be available for this weekend,” Howe said. “He has taken a knock to his knee [the opposite one to his ACL injury].

"We don’t believe it is a serious injury but it'll be enough to keep him out of the Birmingham game and we'll then assess him during the week before our next league game."

NewcastleWorld understands Gordon misses out due minor thigh injury.

Gordon’s absence hands a first senior call-up to 17-year-old forward Sean Neave. The England youth international Neave netted 13 goals across all competitions for the Magpies' under-18 side last term.

Neave penned a professional contract last summer and has been given the number 78 shirt.

"Ever since I was young, it's been my dream to play for Newcastle United so to sign a professional deal here is surreal," Neave told last summer.

"I was really pleased to make my debut for the under-21s as it means next year, I can push on and try to make a few more appearances and hopefully score a few goals. Making my international debut was a really proud moment for me and my family. Playing for your country is one of the biggest things in football and I'm hoping that, next season, I can gain more appearances for England.

"I'm more than happy about my goals this season at under-18 level and I was really pleased to be the top goalscorer at the club. I'm hoping I can push on, score a few more next season and be up there with the top goalscorers in the league."