‘I think’ - Manchester United legend doubles down on Anthony Gordon selection claim before Euro 2024 opener

Wayne Rooney has reiterated that Newcastle United sensation Anthony Gordon should start for England against Serbia.

The Three Lions kick off their Euro 2024 campaign on Sunday with the weight of a nation on their shoulders. Many have tipped England as favourites, with Toon duo Kieran Trippier and Gordon among Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad.

The latter is a novice on the international stage, earning his first senior call-up in March following an impressive run of club form. Gordon was named Newcastle’s Player of the Season for 2023-24 and has since earned three England caps.

He is yet to taste victory in a Three Lions shirt but did star for the under-21s last summer - where he was crowned Player of the Tournament at the Euros as Lee Carsley’s men clinched the trophy. 

Speaking on The Overlap, former Manchester United and England forward Rooney tipped Gordon to make the starting line-up this weekend. The 38-year-old previously backed the Toon winger following the 1-0 defeat to Iceland last week.

“You have Anthony Gordon, for me, playing off the left,” Rooney said. “I think he’s different. He’s the one player, Saka does it as well but maybe not as much, he runs in behind, takes the ball and commits players (with him).

“He’ll hold the width - we’ve seen him do that for Newcastle. That would allow more space for these players here (Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham). 

“All the other wingers like to come inside. He’s the one player who can hold the width and make it difficult. If teams sit back, you need width.”