Barcelona have 17 representatives at the World Cup, more than any other La Liga club, and it seems there is a current or former Blaugrana involved on almost every matchday of the tournament. On Wednesday, the spotlight turns to Anthony Gordon and England as they begin their quest to finally bring football home.
The question is whether Barcelona's newest signing can outshine the player the club rejected to sign for less of the proce.
Is Anthony Gordon expected to play for England tonight?
The main selection dilemma in England's attack has centred on the left wing, where Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford have been competing for a starting berth. Early indications suggest Thomas Tuchel is leaning towards Gordon, valuing his recent form, relentless work rate, and tactical discipline over Rashford, whose off-ball pressing and defensive contribution have often been questioned.
The former Newcastle and Everton winger appears a more natural fit for Tuchel's preferred attacking setup. His ability to stretch play down the flank or drift inside creates space for Harry Kane to operate centrally, while also providing an additional threat as both a creator and goalscorer.
England’s left winger depth chart at the World Cup
Players | Club | Caps |
|---|---|---|
Anthony Gordon | Barcelona | 19 |
Marcus Rashford | Manchester United | 72 |
Eberechi Eze | Arsenal | 17 |
Noni Madueke | Arsenal | 11 |
Morgan Rogers | Aston Villa | 13 |
The two natural left-wing options are Rashford and Gordon, with both players most comfortable operating in their preferred role on that flank and possessing the pace and directness to stretch opposition defences.
However, the competition Gordon faces goes far beyond Rashford. Attacking midfielders like Eberechi Eze and Morgan Rogers have the technical quality, creativity, and ball-carrying ability to operate from the left, even if it is not their natural position.
There is also the flexibility offered by Noni Madueke. Although he is naturally a right winger, Madueke is comfortable switching flanks and has regularly drifted to the left to attack defenders on his stronger foot or combine in tighter areas. His versatility gives Thomas Tuchel another option when looking to balance the front line, adding yet another competitor for minutes in a crowded and highly talented attacking unit.
England team news and predicted lineup
With Tino Livramento now out of the tournament, Reece James looks almost certain to start at right-back against Croatia. The biggest talking point remains the centre-back partnership. Marc Guéhi appears to be the preferred option among the supporters, but reports suggest he could miss out, potentially opening the door for John Stones despite his limited game time in recent months.
In midfield, the team largely picks itself, with the main selection dilemma for Thomas Tuchel centred on whether to start Jude Bellingham or Morgan Rogers in the more advanced role. Further forward, Bukayo Saka's fitness concerns could see Noni Madueke come into the side, while an intriguing battle on the left flank may feature both past and present Barcelona stars going head-to-head.
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