Anthony Gordon: 'It was top from start to finish'

Anthony Gordon kick-started a successful night in Riga with the opening goal in England’s 5-0 win over Latvia, to seal a spot at next summer’s World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

The Newcastle United forward opened the scoring midway through the first half, following a sharp run and finish before captain Harry Kane added two more before the interval.

An own goal and a late strike from substitute Ebere Eze after the break ensured England will be heading to the World Cup, with two games still to play in their qualifying group.

“It was top from start to finish,” said Gordon.

“The manager said in the changing room that we haven't conceded a goal. Every performance, the commitment and the vibes and the attitude, everyone's giving everything and you can see that on the pitch.

“It's that togetherness. You see on the pitch we're fighting and giving absolutely everything for each other which can be difficult in an international environment, because lads are coming from everywhere and we don't see each other often.

“The manager and the staff have really honed in on creating that [togetherness] and it's paid off.

“It feels good because it gives the lads some chemistry and familiarity with each other. We know what each other's going to do when we get the ball and that always helps, especially attacking-wise.”

As for his goal, his second for the Three Lions, Gordon admits he was due one after coming close in recent games since Tuchel took over.

“I should've scored the other day at Wembley,” he admitted.

“I've been practising that exact finish in training, and I want to thank Dean Henderson for taking the time to be in goal for me. Practice makes perfect.”

Gordon also paid tribute to the team’s captain, who took his tally to 76 goals in 110 appearances for England with his brace in Riga.

And the former Everton man believes that Kane is the best striker in world football at the moment.

“Certainly not [a better striker], not right now with the goals he scored.

“He can score from anywhere. His goal today was with his left foot. You don't even think it's a shot that's on and the next minute it's in the bottom corner.

“He's world-class and I said that the other day.”