Gareth Southgate has a big decision to make after England’s underwhelming performance against Slovenia on Tuesday evening.
The Three Lions once again struggled to find any real rhythm against Slovenia as they continued their underwhelming start to Euro 2024.
Defensively they were solid for the most part but going forward it was the same old story – bereft of any creativity.
That was until Anthony Gordon came on as a late substitute.
Anthony Gordon simply has to start in the round of 16
Gordon came on in the 89th minute and despite only a short cameo, he made a real impact and was almost involved in a goal.
As soon as he entered proceedings, the jet-heeled winger took on his man and immediately put Slovenia’s stubborn defence on the back foot.
He punched a terrific pass into Kobbie Mainoo which almost led to Cole Palmer putting Southgate’s men 1-0 up and besides his quality on the ball, he just gave England so much more balance.
Gordon was constantly showing for the ball and evidently was eager to make an impression – which he certainly did.
Southgate now has a big decision to make ahead of the knockout stages and must consider putting the £60,000-a-week (Spotrac) winger in from the off.
Kobbie Mainoo and Cole Palmer deserve a chance
The other substitutes also made a good impression, with Mainoo and Palmer particularly impressive.
Mainoo gave the midfield much more balance whilst Palmer immediately looked to get on the front foot and progress the ball forward.
The Chelsea talisman seems better suited to playing against a low block than Bukayo Saka, who thrives in more space down the flank.
A telling few days await England and Southgate, who have big questions to answer.