Gordon’s Resolve: Looking Ahead and Playing Through Injury

Anthony Gordon has expressed pride in his career accomplishments to date but stated his intention not to become complacent. The Newcastle winger’s strong performances since his transfer from Everton in January 2023 led to his inclusion in the most recent England squad. Gordon debuted for the national team in March of the previous year and is potentially in line to earn his seventh and eighth caps during the Three Lions’ upcoming Nations League fixtures against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Gordon stated, “[I am] proud, but I am not that guy to sit back and look at what I have achieved, it’s not in my nature. It’s more looking ahead, not so much into the future, but what is right in front of me. I have been guilty of looking too far into the future. I am trying to rein that in a little bit and focus on what is ahead of me but I’m definitely proud of what I have achieved, especially the England caps.” The 23-year-old player has stayed with the squad for this international break despite a minor injury, while eight other players withdrew due to fitness concerns. Gordon commented, “Availability is the best ability. I love playing football, so if I can play football even with a slight illness, or a slight knock, if I can play, I will play. I have always been that way, so I don’t know any different.” He further added, “It [enthusiasm for football] has never left me. I try to not let it get that way consciously, because football does get hard at times, but I have always been enthusiastic. I have always found a way to enjoy it.”