How Gordon became one of England's main men

The battle for England’s left‑wing position has become a notable subplot, with Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford vying for the spot while Gordon’s transfer to Barcelona from Newcastle for £69m has drawn particular attention. Rashford, who spent a loan spell at Barcelona, returned to Manchester United after the Catalan club opted not to make his stay permanent. “People raised eyebrows erstwhile Anthony Gordon went to Barcelona for the wealth that helium did and Marcus Rashford came backmost to Manchester United,” erstwhile England goalkeeper Paul Robinson told BBC Radio 5 Live. Gordon has demonstrated the ability to influence play either by linking with his full‑back or by using his pace to deliver crosses from the flank. Reflecting on his perception in England, he told ITV: “I ever felt successful England, radical respected maine due to the fact that I was accelerated and I pressed but they ne'er really respected the prime and IQ that I play with,” Gordon told ITV. He added: “Only the players I play with ever look to announcement that. I deliberation present I'm astatine Barcelona and I play a antithetic style, those qualities are highlighted overmuch much and radical are really starting to instrumentality announcement that I'm not conscionable quick.” Gordon continued: “In England, it was ne'er truly respected due to the fact that radical conscionable spot maine arsenic truly speedy and truly aggressive.” And regarding his experience in Spain: “In Spain, they truly admit my IQ and prime due to the fact that astatine Barca, if you're not technical, if you're not smart, you're going to basal retired similar a sore thumb.” Thomas Tuchel is beginning to assemble a squad he believes can challenge and win the Euros in 2028, with his immediate target being the Nations League. Should England succeed in that tournament, Gordon is likely to have played a significant role.