Anthony Gordon, despite bearing visible scars from a bike accident, is eager to revitalize England’s struggling offense at Euro 2024. The Newcastle United winger, sporting grazes on his face, hands, and arms, assured the media on Friday that he is ready to make a significant impact in Sunday’s last 16 clash against Slovakia.
“We went on what was meant to be a recovery bike ride,” the 23-year-old Gordon explained. “I was going down a hill and tried to take a quick video on my phone for my family of what I was doing. Before I knew it, I was on the floor. I got a few grazes but only a few cuts. It’s not painful.”
So far, Gordon has had limited playtime, appearing only in the final minutes of England’s 0-0 draw against Slovenia in their third group game. Although Gareth Southgate’s team topped Group C, they managed to score just two goals, attracting heavy criticism from fans and pundits alike.
Gordon is a popular choice among those calling for changes, having scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists in 35 Premier League appearances last season. He believes his direct and fast-paced style could be the spark England needs.
“My main strength is that I’m very direct. I’m obviously quick, so I’m a nightmare for anyone I play against,” he added. “I’m positive. Every time I get the ball I always try and make something happen. I’m not a very safe player, I’m always going for it, I’m always trying to put people on the back foot. I think with the players we’ve got, the likes of H (Harry Kane), who likes to drop deep, I think I add a different element to the team.”
Despite England’s underwhelming performance so far, expectations remain high as they find themselves in a perceived easier side of the draw. England will avoid facing Germany, Spain, France, or Portugal until the final, should they progress that far.
The Three Lions have struggled under the weight of these expectations, but Gordon sees this pressure as a positive challenge. “Pressure is a privilege because it means people are expecting things from you, which in return means they think you’re good at what you do.”
If Gordon is to start in Gelsenkirchen, he is likely to replace Phil Foden. Foden, who recently won the Premier League’s Player of the Year award for his role in Manchester City’s title win, is back with the squad after briefly returning home for the birth of his third child. However, Foden’s tendency to drift inside from a wide-left position has created imbalance in England’s attack, an issue compounded by the injury absence of natural left-back Luke Shaw.
