Anthony Gordon has emerged as one of England's main men, earning praise from captain Harry Kane and manager Thomas Tuchel. The Barcelona winger scored the opening goal in England's 2-0 win over the Czech Republic and previously netted against world champions Spain at Wembley. His form has been consistent since the World Cup knockout stage, averaging a goal contribution every 69 minutes.
In his last six England matches, Gordon has three goals and three assists, including winning the penalty in the dramatic last-16 victory over Mexico at Azteca Stadium. At Barcelona, he has already recorded five assists in La Liga. Gordon linked effectively with former Newcastle teammate Lewis Hall and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who made his first England start in nearly two years, for the opening goal against the Czechs.
Kane noted that the left-wing position beside him had been a problem area, but Gordon has now secured the role, showing he belongs at the highest level for both club and country. Gordon attempted four shots against the Czech Republic, more than any England player, and ranks among the top four in expected assists (0.9), expected goals (0.9), passes into the box (14), touches in the opposition box (29), chances created (eight), and shots on target (five) since the World Cup knockout stage began.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing