The short version
- Anthony Gordon scored against the Czech Republic and Spain, contributing significantly to England's recent Nations League campaign.
- Manager Thomas Tuchel and captain Harry Kane have publicly affirmed Gordon's status as a reliable starter for the national team.
- Gordon's statistical output since the World Cup knockout stage rivals that of other top players like Jude Bellingham.
Anthony Gordon has emerged as a central figure in England’s attacking lineup, solidifying his position after a series of strong performances during the Nations League. The twenty-five-year-old winger, who recently joined Barcelona from Newcastle United, scored the opening goal in England’s two-nil victory over the Czech Republic on Tuesday. This performance followed another goal against world champions Spain at Wembley earlier in the week, marking a continued upward trajectory for the player since the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Manager Thomas Tuchel has indicated that Gordon is approaching the status of an undroppable player within the squad. Tuchel emphasized the importance of clarity regarding roles and competition for starting positions. He noted that Gordon is actively defending his shirt through decisive actions and high-level technique. The manager praised Gordon’s finishing against the Czech Republic, describing it as excellent despite the difficulty of the chance, and highlighted his ability to perform consistently at the highest level.
Captain Harry Kane also weighed in on Gordon’s development, stating that the winger is showing he belongs among the elite players for both his club and country. Kane described Gordon as one of the team’s main men, a status shared by other reliable starters such as Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, and Jordan Pickford. The captain observed that Gordon’s recent displays represent some of his best work in an England shirt, suggesting he is relishing the responsibility of being a key contributor.
Gordon’s rise to prominence has not been immediate or straightforward. The left-wing position has historically been a point of contention for England, with several high-profile players including Marcus Rashford, Phil Foden, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke vying for the spot in recent years. Gordon began to distinguish himself during Lee Carsley’s interim tenure as manager, though he previously admitted that he had only revealed half of his potential for the national team at that time.
Statistical data supports the qualitative assessments from coaching staff and teammates. Since the start of the World Cup knockout stage, Gordon has averaged a goal contribution every sixty-nine minutes. He recorded three goals and three assists in his last six appearances for England. Additionally, he won a crucial penalty during the dramatic victory over Mexico at Azteca Stadium. His underlying metrics, including expected goals, expected assists, passes into the box, and touches in the opposition area, rank him among the top four England players in these categories.
The tactical fit has also improved with recent personnel changes. Gordon linked up effectively with Lewis Hall on the left flank and combined with Trent Alexander-Arnold for his goal against the Czech Republic. Alexander-Arnold, making his first start for England in nearly two years, expressed satisfaction with their connection. Gordon noted that he had been eager to play alongside the right-back, who now plays for Real Madrid, while Gordon is established at Barcelona.
There is an interesting narrative surrounding Gordon’s transfer to Barcelona and the simultaneous return of Marcus Rashford to Manchester United. Barcelona opted not to make Rashford’s loan permanent, instead investing sixty-nine million pounds in Gordon from Newcastle. Some observers initially raised eyebrows at this financial decision, questioning whether Gordon could justify the fee compared to Rashford. However, Gordon’s ability to beat defenders both inside and outside, followed by precise crossing, has begun to validate the club’s investment.
Gordon’s consistency provides England with a stable option on the left wing, a role that had lacked a definitive owner in previous campaigns. His performance against the Czech Republic included four shot attempts, more than any other player on either side of that match. This level of activity and output suggests that Gordon has successfully navigated the competition for places and earned his spot through merit rather than favoritism.
As England continues its Nations League campaign, the focus will remain on maintaining this form. The integration of new club dynamics, with key players now spread across European giants like Barcelona and Real Madrid, adds a layer of complexity to team cohesion. However, the current evidence points to Gordon as a player who has met the high standards set by Tuchel and Kane.
The broader implication for England is the stabilization of their attacking third. With Kane guaranteed in the center and Gordon securing the left flank, the team has addressed a previous weakness. Future matches will test whether this form can be sustained against varied defensive structures, but the current trajectory indicates a positive shift in the team’s offensive capabilities.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC News↗How Gordon became one of England's main men
