Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon finally made his first appearance at Euro 2024 on Tuesday night.
The 23-year-old was a late substitute for England in Cologne, coming off the bench as the Three Lions drew 0-0 with Slovenia.
It was another uninspiring performance at the European Championship from Gareth Southgate’s side, but one that has resulted in them coming top of their group and ending up on the ‘easier’ side of the draw.
While it was largely disappointing from England, there were a few reasons to be positive – and they were mainly provided by the substitutes who came on, one of which was Anthony Gordon.
Anthony Gordon shines on England cameo at Euro 2024
Kobbie Mainoo and Cole Palmer both had an impact when they came on, but it was Newcastle United winger Gordon who really tried to force the issue late on.
He replaced Phil Foden in the 89th minute, with Southgate only giving him five minutes on his tournament debut. It was a fleeting cameo, but one that hopefully made Southgate wish he had brought him on sooner.
Gordon’s first involvement was poor, but it was at least a signal of intent. He immediately ran at the Slovenia defender with pace, only to knock the ball out of touch.
His next involvement was much more impactful, as he drifted inside to play an incisive pass into Mainoo. Clever flicks from him and Harry Kane gave Palmer a chance, but it was easily saved.
The opportunity came from Gordon’s speed and desire to play forwards, and he created another chance moments later as he found Trent Alexander-Arnold in space. Sadly, the Liverpool player blazed his effort over the bar.
Newcastle United winger addresses his performance for England
After the 0-0 draw, Gordon spoke to Sky Sports. He was asked about being on the bench, before delivering his verdict on his own individual performance.
“It’s frustrating because I want to play,” he said.
“I think every player does. It’s difficult because we’ve got so many good players. Watching from the sidelines at any level is hard. You just want to come on the pitch because you feel like you can make an impact.
“I feel like I did when I came on. Tried to get at people, be direct and cause problems in the few minutes that I got. I’ll always try and do that.”
Gordon has to play more in England’s next game
It has been frustrating to watch Southgate opt against playing Gordon. From a Newcastle United perspective, we want to see our players shine on the international stage. But even without the Toon allegiance, Gordon is the player that England have been crying out for.
The Three Lions have lacked proper width on the left all tournament, yet Gordon has watched on from the sidelines.
When he got his chance, he made the most of it. Gordon created two opportunities, one of which was England’s best move of the match.
This cameo has to result in Gordon playing more in England’s next game – ideally from the start. The likes of him, Mainoo and Palmer really made an impression on Tuesday night, while the England regulars produced another limp and lifeless display.
Now it is knockout football, and England need match-winners. Anthony Gordon is exactly that, and has to feature more prominently at Euro 2024 from now on.
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