The official reason why Joe Willock & Anthony Gordon are missing for Newcastle United vs Leicester City

Anthony Gordon and Joe Willock are not in Newcastle United’s squad for the Premier League visit to Leicester City tonight (kick-off 8pm).

Gordon had missed the last three matches against West Ham United, Liverpool and Brentford through suspension but was eligible for the trip to the King Power Stadium. However, he misses out due to the injury he sustained whilst on England duty a fortnight ago.

Why Anthony Gordon and Joe Willock miss Newcastle United’s visit to Leicester City

Speaking on Friday, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe said: “No, he hasn't [trained yet]. No, not yet. He's another one that we're monitoring. We think he's still recovering, from the really, really bad knock he got for England, which still got a huge bruising on his leg.

“He's done individual training. He's not done group training. He's still not feeling 100% pain-free. So, again, let's wait and see.”

And Willock misses out “misses out on a place in the squad as the Magpies observe concussion protocols, as per the club website.

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Eddie Howe has named an unchanged starting XI from the 2-1 win over Brentford last Wednesday, with Alexander Isak, Joelinton and Kieran Trippier overcoming their respective injuries. Isak felt his groin in the warm-up versus Brentford, while Trippier came off with cramp and Joelinton played on despite his knee being heavily strapped.

Nick Pope is in goal with Trippier, Fabian Schar, Dan Burn and Tino Livramento lining up in defence. In midfield, Sandro Tonali continues in the No.6 role with Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes either side. Isak leads the line with Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy start in the wide areas.

On the bench, Sean Neave retains his place alongside fellow forwards Callum Wilson and Will Osula. Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley are the midfield reinforcements, with Emil Krafth and Matt Targett - back from illness - providing options at the back. Martin Dubravka and John Ruddy are the substitute goalkeepers.

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