Gareth Southgate was very happy with what he saw from Anthony Gordon during his England debut.
The Newcastle United winger was named in the England team on Saturday night, starting on the left wing as the Three Lions were beaten 1-0 by Brazil.
Bruno Guimaraes triumphed over Anthony Gordon, as the two Newcastle players went head-to-head at Wembley.
While he did not get the desired result, it was a night to remember for Gordon. The Toon winger made his first ever senior England appearance, and he impressed Gareth Southgate with his performance.
The England manager decided to take Gordon off with 15 minutes to go, replacing him with Manchester United star Marcus Rashford. And now Gordon has shared to the media what Southgate privately said to him when he was withdrawn.
What Gareth Southgate said to Anthony Gordon immediately after England debut
Following his England debut, Gordon spoke to the Telegraph. He shared what Southgate said to him on the touchline after substituting him for the latter stages of the game.
“He was saying, ‘fantastic’,” he said.
“He was really pleased for me. I think he was happy with my performance which is always a good thing.”
Anthony Gordon now on the right path for Euro 2024
Given how happy Southgate was with his performance, Gordon must suddenly have real confidence about going to Euro 2024 this summer.
He has massively enhanced his chances of selection with a strong performance against Brazil, who are one of the best teams in the world.
The 23-year-old looked comfortable at international level, unfazed by the step up in quality or the different skillset required.
Gordon is no longer an international wildcard, and will know he now has a good chance of going to the Euros if he can continue to excel for his club. Fingers crossed that happens, as Gordon will be absolutely vital to Newcastle United enjoying a strong end to the campaign.
Next England game for Newcastle winger
But before Gordon returns to Newcastle, he has one more game with England.
The Three Lions are facing Belgium at Wembley at 7.45pm on Tuesday night, and the Toon winger will be hoping to win his second cap. He will also be hoping for a better result, after tasting defeat on his debut.
Gordon will not be against any of his Newcastle teammates against Belgium, but he will face former Everton pal and current Toon transfer target Amadou Onana.
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