Why Anthony Gordon withdrew at half-time in Newcastle United's 4-0 win vs Girona

The 23-year-old only reported back for pre-season earlier this week from the extended break he was given after reaching the Euro 2024 final with England.

Gordon netted his team’s third goal with Sean Longstaff (twice) and Jacob Murphy on the scoresheet in the first-half. He withdrew at half-time in what was pre-planned substitution.

“Yeah that was the plan, play 45 minutes,” said Howe, who quashed fears over a potential injury. “I thought he looked good today. Of course he’s behind the other players, he had to have a mental break after the Euros after a very long season for him.

“But today was important. Great to see him score, I thought he played very well and we’ll build his training load up again next week.

“He feels good, he wanted to play longer tonight so that’s a really good sign. He’s a professional guy, he’s been looking after himself but there is no substitute for training or being with the players so I’m confident he’ll be ready for next week.”

On the result, Howe added: “Very good. Really pleased with the energy and intensity in our play. Everything in that first half an hour was top draw. The challenge we had in Japan was the humidity was incredible and I think we saw that in the two performances, I didn’t think they were great.

“Today was a big game for us to show our true selves and be much better. That, in part, will get us ready for next week.”