Anthony Gordon has revealed that the high level of competition in England’s squad motivates him to perform at a top level.
The Newcastle United forward has been a regular since the arrival of Thomas Tuchel earlier this year and was named to the recent squad for the matches against Wales and Latvia this month.
However, the absences of several big names from the squad including the likes of Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Jack Grealish indicates that no player’s spot is guaranteed in the team.
Despite not getting on the scoresheet in the wins over Andorra and Serbia in September, the 24-year-old was very impressive and has been rewarded with another chance to shine for the Three Lions.
“At this level, you see the squad changing all the time, players coming in, players leaving,” Gordon revealed.
“I think you’ve almost got to be a bit paranoid that you’re not going to get in because it pushes you even further.
“You’ve always got to challenge yourself because the lads you’re competing with are always at the highest level because that’s the level we’re playing at.”
England host Wales at Wembley on Thursday in an international friendly match, before facing Latvia in a World Cup qualifier next week.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have enjoyed a very impressive qualifying campaign so far, winning all their five matches so far.
The Three Lions have rarely stepped away from top gear, despite missing several of their key players with injuries.
“I never think I’m nailed in, but obviously it’s a massive goal for me and one I’m pushing for”, the winger continued.
“It’s up to us as players to push ourselves as individuals and that ultimately challenges the next man in our position to do better again.
“Coincidentally, it’s a World Cup year and everyone seems to be flying. I think it’s more about the team.
We have to focus on the team, it’s the team that’s going to win tournaments, hopefully, so I think it’s never going to be about individuals, and the moment we start making it about individuals is when we’ve got a problem”, the 24-year-old added.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
