SoccerNews
England have never boasted stronger competition for places than at the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament, according to Three Lions winger Anthony Gordon.
The Newcastle United forward will feature at his first major tournament with Gareth Southgate’s senior side, who start their campaign against Serbia on Sunday.
Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, Jarrod Bowen and Eberechi Eze are all other wide options as Southgate prepares to choose between a wealth of attacking riches on the wings.
Gordon believes England have rarely enjoyed such a depth of talent, heading into the tournament in Germany where they are seen as favourites alongside France.
“A few people have said it where the squad has never been so competitive in terms of everyone is in form and everyone has come here in a really good place,” he said.
“There is definitely competition for places. Everyone is going to be at their best to try and play.”
Manchester City defender John Stones offered cause for concern after an injury during Friday’s surprise 1-0 defeat against Iceland, though was involved in training ahead of England’s opener in Gelsenkirchen.
Luke Shaw also featured in the pre-tournament session but the Manchester United full-back will be managed closely as his recovery from a hamstring issue continues.
Time for session one! pic.twitter.com/0vxmd7cWie
— England (@England) June 11, 2024
“I was a bit worried when [Stones] went down [against Iceland] because he’s such a big player for us but he’s fine,” Gordon added. “He’s got an elite mentality, so I’ve had faith in him.
“[Shaw] is back in training now and doing really well. I did a bit of my rehab with him and he was way far ahead of schedule. He was doing great, which is good.”
Southgate hit the headlines on Monday after suggesting the European Championship marked his “last chance” as England manager.
Yet Gordon hopes the England boss continues his tenure past when his current contract is due to end in December.
“From a selfish point I would want him to stay,” he continued. “I love working with him and his staff.
“From my youth journey with England, the way they have transitioned the whole set-up from youth to senior level has been absolutely amazing and I don’t think they get the credit he deserves.”