Eddie Howe admits Anthony Gordon may not play for Newcastle again amid Bayern Munich transfer links

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has conceded that Anthony Gordon may have played his final match for the club, amid growing speculation linking the England international with a summer move to Bayern Munich.

The 25-year-old has been absent from the Magpies’ last four fixtures, initially due to a hip flexor injury, as reports suggest the Bundesliga champions are in advanced negotiations regarding a potential transfer.

When questioned about Gordon’s recent exclusion and whether it was influenced by future planning, Howe stated: "When you get to this stage of the season, part of what we will be doing we’ll be looking to next year, naturally, so yes. Anthony’s just come back from injury. I think the team has played well in his absence and with a partial view to the future, yes."

Asked for an update on the potential switch to the Allianz Arena, Howe added: "No, nothing, no updates from me. These are discussions that potentially might be happening, but not with me."

Eddie Howe has admitted Anthony Gordon may not play for Newcastle again (PA)

Howe now faces a significant selection decision for Sunday’s penultimate Premier League game of what has been a disappointing campaign, as relegation-threatened West Ham visit St James’ Park.

Brazil international Joelinton, who occupied Gordon’s left-sided attacking role last weekend, is currently nursing a thigh problem.

Addressing whether he would select Gordon if necessary, Howe affirmed: "If it’s the right thing for the team – and I put the team and the club above any individual – then I would play him, of course."