Gordon was forced to sit out last weekend’s FA Cup win at Birmingham City because of a thigh problem, but the winger has been back in full training this week and will start as Newcastle attempt to claim their first-ever win at the Etihad.
Dan Burn was forced off in the second half at St Andrew’s, but a scan on his groin issue proved positive and while the centre-half is not a guaranteed starter against Manchester City, he has a good chance of lining up alongside Fabian Schar at the heart of the back four.
“Anthony should be fine (to start against Manchester City),” said Magpies head coach Eddie Howe. He’s trained this week without any problems. It was a thigh problem, but he responded well to treatment over the weekend. He’s trained well.
“The initial look on Dan wasn’t positive, but he had a scan and the scan was good. He’s improved a lot very quickly this week, so he’ll be very close for this weekend.
“Dan has had an outstanding season. Whenever you’re in my shoes, you’re looking for reliability, consistency and people who are always there when you need them, in the difficult moments, not just the good times. Dan has had all those qualities.”
Like Burn, Botman had a positive set of scan results on his knee issue, allaying fears that the Dutch centre-half could have suffered a problem related to last year’s cruciate-ligament surgery.
Botman will not be involved this weekend, but the defender could be back in the frame for next Sunday’s home game with Nottingham Forest.
“It was good news on the scan that he had after the injury,” said Howe. “We don’t think there’s any long-term issue there. Short-term, there’s still a bit of pain for him, so we think he’ll miss this weekend, but hopefully won’t be far away for the following games.”
Harvey Barnes is still completing his recovery from a thigh injury, but the winger is making good progress and should be available for selection in the next few weeks.
“Harvey’s not far away,” said Howe. “He’s done really well, and we’re really pleased with how he’s looked. He’s another player that’s close to being in contention.”
