Anthony Gordon stakes claim as England’s new main man

Gordon turns form into an England statement

Anthony Gordon is making a compelling case to become one of England’s indispensable players. The Barcelona winger scored in successive Nations League matches, opening the scoring in Tuesday’s 2-0 win over the Czech Republic after also finding the net in Saturday’s 3-2 defeat by Spain at Wembley.

His recent international run has been especially productive. Since the World Cup knockout stage began, Gordon has scored three goals and supplied three assists in six England appearances. He also won the penalty in the dramatic last-16 victory over Mexico and assisted both of Harry Kane’s goals in the 2-1 last-32 win against DR Congo.

Tuchel says the winger is defending his place

England manager Thomas Tuchel said Gordon was “getting there” when asked if he was becoming one of the first names on the team sheet. “He’s defending his shirt, he’s defending his position,” Tuchel said, praising his display against the Czech Republic as “very decisive” and highlighting the quality of his opening goal.

Kane, England’s captain and record goalscorer, believes the winger has established himself among the team’s leading figures. “His performances in the last couple of games have been some of his best that he has played in an England shirt,” Kane said. He added that Gordon was “showing that he belongs at the highest level, for Barcelona and England”.

Gordon linked up with former Newcastle team-mate Lewis Hall on England’s left and combined with Trent Alexander-Arnold for the goal against the Czechs. Alexander-Arnold, making his first England start in nearly two years, called the connection a “great compliment” and said he had looked to play forward and create an opportunity.

A left-wing role coming into focus

England have tried several options on the left, including Marcus Rashford, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden and Noni Madueke. Gordon’s recent impact has given Tuchel a strong contender for the role as the manager builds towards the 2028 Euros and targets the Nations League.

The BBC report says Gordon was among England’s leading players across several measures from the start of the World Cup knockout stage, including expected assists, expected goals, chances created and shots on target. He attempted four shots against the Czech Republic, more than any other England player in that match.

His move from Newcastle to Barcelona for a reported £69m has also sharpened the comparison with Rashford, who returned to Manchester United after a loan spell at the Catalan club. Gordon said he felt his technical quality and football intelligence had been overlooked in England, where he was often identified chiefly with speed and pressing. At Barcelona, he said, those qualities are more visible because the team’s style places a premium on technical ability and intelligence.

Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson said Gordon’s pace and confidence make him difficult for defenders to handle. With his club form carrying into international football, Gordon is increasingly backing up Kane’s description of him as one of England’s “main men”.