Anthony Gordon played 69 minutes for England as they hammered Serbia to preserve their 100% record in World Cup qualifying.
After beating Andorra in uninspiring fashion on Saturday evening, Thomas Tuchel’s Three Lions were much more ruthless against a stronger Serbia side, winning 5-0.
Tuchel named two Newcastle United players in his starting XI, with Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento coming into the side. As for Dan Burn, he dropped to the bench in place of Ezri Konsa.
It was a first start for Gordon since his red card against Liverpool, as the 24-year-old was deployed on the left of attack.
He joined Harry Kane and Noni Madueke in England’s front three, but was the only member of the trio not to find the net.
Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty ImagesAnthony Gordon rated from ‘good’ to ‘quiet’ after England beat Serbia
England were very impressive against Serbia, with Gordon coming close to finding the net on multiple occasions.
He had three shots on target, one of which ultimately led to Ezri Konsa scoring England’s third of the night in Belgrade. He was also booked during his 69 minutes of action before being replaced by Marcus Rashford.
The national media have given their verdicts on Gordon’s performance, and it is fair to say that the Toon winger has divided opinion.
The Mirror gave Gordon a 7/10, writing: “Booked. Added some pace, zip and threat from the left. Good display.”
The Express were a bit more critical of Gordon, describing him as ‘quiet’ as they gave him a score of six.
They wrote: “Probably the quietest of England’s forwards, but it wasn’t for the lack of trying. It’s been a couple of weeks since Anthony Gordon took to the pitch, given his red card in the first half of Newcastle’s clash with Liverpool. He’ll be one of those looking over his shoulder, given the quality of players currently absent from the squad.”
Gordon also received 6/10 from the Telegraph, who commented: “Given the nod ahead of Marcus Rashford and was good on the left, hanging up a few crosses and also cutting inside to get on the ball. Had a powerful shot saved by Petrovic.”
The Metro made it a hat-trick of sixes for Gordon, writing: “Bright in periods during the first half, but quieter after the break before being brought off for Rashford. The only one of England’s four starting attacking players not to register a goal or an assist.”
When can Anthony Gordon play again for Newcastle United?
After playing for England on Tuesday night, Gordon would love nothing more than to represent Newcastle United against Wolves on Saturday.
However, that will not be possible. Gordon remains suspended for the Magpies, as he gets set to serve the second of a three-match ban.
But that ban only applies to domestic games. Therefore, Newcastle’s number 10 will be available to play against Barcelona in the Champions League next Thursday night.
After that, Gordon will serve the final game of his suspension as Eddie Howe’s side travel to Bournemouth.
Gordon’s next domestic game for Newcastle could be against Bradford City in the third round of the Carabao Cup. The Magpies face the League One side on 24th October at St James’ Park, as they kick off the defence of their trophy.