Gordon Proves He Is One of England's Main Men, Says Kane
Anthony Gordon has become a key England player, with captain Harry Kane calling him one of the team's main men after goals against Spain and the Czech Republic.
Anthony Gordon scored the opener in England's 2-0 win over the Czech Republic on Tuesday, continuing a run that began in the World Cup knockout stage. The 25-year-old has now scored three goals and provided three assists in his past six England matches, including a goal in Saturday's 3-2 defeat by Spain at Wembley.
England captain Harry Kane said Gordon is "showing that he belongs at the highest level, for Barcelona and England," adding that his recent performances have been among his best for his country. Manager Thomas Tuchel praised Gordon's decisiveness against the Czech Republic and said he is "defending his shirt and his position."
Gordon's form has made him a likely starter on England's left, a position that has been unsettled. He linked well with former Newcastle teammate Lewis Hall and combined with Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his first England start in nearly two years, for the opening goal. Alexander-Arnold called playing with Gordon "a great compliment."
Supporters have taken notice of Gordon's rise, with some arguing on social media that he should have stayed on longer in certain World Cup games. Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson told BBC Radio 5 Live that Gordon has become a key part of the team and that his pace and direct running cause full-backs problems.
Gordon said moving to Barcelona has changed how people view him, as his technical quality and game intelligence are now more appreciated. He already has five assists in La Liga. His competition with Marcus Rashford for the left-wing spot at both England and Barcelona remains a subplot, after Barca signed Gordon instead of making Rashford's loan permanent.
Tuchel is building a team he believes can challenge for the 2028 Euros, but first wants to win the Nations League. If England do so, Gordon is likely to have played a major role.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
