Gordon highlights importance of squad togetherness

Anthony Gordon believes squad togetherness will be important for England as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026 this summer. 

The forward, who completed 45 minutes in the 1-0 victory over New Zealand, feels there is no limit to what the Three Lions can achieve in North America if the players remain committed to driving standards and pushing each other on. 

“Anything is possible,” he said after Harry Kane scored the only goal of the game in Tampa.

“I think that’s up to us. It’s up to us how we act off the pitch, on the pitch. 

“If we’re together, if we’re pushing each other in our position, if the guy in front of us, we boost him, we help him as much as we can and vice versa. 

“Everyone’s got to be on the same path heading towards one goal.”

Gordon was one of 11 half-time substitutes at the Raymond James Stadium, where Thomas Tuchel committed to giving his players equal minutes as they prepare for their World Cup opener against Croatia on Wednesday 17 June. 

It was a welcome return to action for the 25-year-old, who was not involved in the final six weeks of the Premier League season at Newcastle United.

And, as he prepares for his first World Cup, he praised the manager for giving everyone an early opportunity to get to grips with the conditions in the United States.

“I think it was a good decision to give everyone that platform to really boost their fitness up,” he added.

“Get used to the heat, get used to the pitches because as much as it is hot, the pitches are really making a big difference.

“I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a good test and good to be back with the team and just getting back in that rhythm and getting your chemistry back with the players.”