Howe Dismisses Gordon Transfer Speculation as Noise in the System

Eddie Howe has waved away the latest round of transfer conjecture swirling around Anthony Gordon, laying the blame squarely at the door of the media machinery that generates such speculation endlessly.

The Newcastle manager fielded questions about Arsenal's supposed interest in the £95m-valued winger at Friday's press conference, alongside continued links involving Liverpool and Manchester United. Rather than dignify the rumours with detailed responses, Howe took aim at the cycle itself.

"In this day and age, you're forever hearing rumour and speculation," the Magpies boss told assembled reporters. "I don't see most of it—probably ninety percent passes me by. It's the price of being a player at the top level. They need to block it out and concentrate on what matters: the football."

Gordon has emerged as one of the Premier League's standout wingers since establishing himself at St James' Park, and that prominence inevitably draws the vultures. The England international isn't alone in facing exit chatter—midfielder Sandro Tonali and defender Nick Woltemade have also been mentioned in connection with moves away.

Howe was unambiguous about his view on the matter. "I hadn't even seen this story until now," he continued. "It's your industry creating these narratives. I'm somewhat removed from all that. If you don't read the papers, you don't know who's supposedly off to where. Honestly, it's neither here nor there. What matters is how the players handle it—and I'm confident they'll grow thick-skinned enough to ignore it and get on with playing."

Injury Updates and Everton Preview

With Newcastle preparing to host Everton on Saturday—their first 3pm Saturday fixture at St James' Park since facing Burnley on December 6—Howe is focused on reclaiming their home fortress.

"We need to rebuild our rhythm here," he said. "Everton have been impressive away from home this season. They're a difficult proposition, particularly defensively."

On the injury front, Howe confirmed Tino Livramento will return in early March, while Jacob Ramsey is expected to resume training after sitting out Tuesday's Champions League victory over Qarabag. Bruno Guimaraes, the midfield linchpin, remains under careful management following his injury.

"I've had positive conversations with Bruno," Howe explained. "He's upbeat about his recovery and putting in the work. He's getting excellent care. Fingers crossed he can give us a lift in the run-in, but we're being cautious."

Champions League Draw Awaits

The draw for the Champions League last-16 takes place Friday morning, with Newcastle potentially facing either Chelsea or Barcelona. Howe expressed relief that Manchester City cannot be paired with them again, having faced Pep Guardiola's side multiple times recently across various competitions.

"We're just grateful City are off the table," Howe said with evident relief. "We're ready for whoever comes our way. It's a bit odd how you could end up playing the same opponent three times in a week, but that's football.

"We had a brilliant game against Chelsea here—I thought we were exceptional. I have huge respect for them, though of course they've got a new manager now. Barcelona at home was similar; we performed really well. Whoever we draw, it's an exciting prospect for us."