‘Lack of pace’ - Liverpool legend agrees with Newcastle United supporters about ‘surprising’ Anthony Gordon decision

Jamie Carragher believes Gareth Southgate was wrong to leave Anthony Gordon on the bench during England’s 1-0 win over Serbia.

The Three Lions got the job done in Gelsenkirchen last night but hardly set Euro 2024 alight. Despite taking an early lead through Jude Bellingham, England took their foot off the gas and, at times, were outplayed by Dragan Stojkovic’s side.

Southgate waited until the 69th minute to make a change, with Conor Gallagher replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold. Jarrod Bowen and Kobbie Mainoo were also introduced but Newcastle United supporters were stunned by Gordon’s omission.

Phil Foden - who played the entire game - proved ineffective on the left flank and bore most of the post-match criticism. Toon fans were left feeling “disappointed” at the full-time whistle by Southgate’s snub.

One supporter wrote: “Disappointed Gordon didn’t manage to get on the pitch. We’re biased but the game was perfect for Gordon on the left, especially (in the) second half.”

Another agreed, insisting Gordon would be a better option on the left flank. The post read: “Foden is an elite footballer - but he is not a winger. This England team is a quick and direct left-sided forward away from being perfect. And Anthony Gordon fits that bill to perfection.”

Liverpool legend Carragher also felt as though Gordon deserved a chance. He wrote in The Telegraph: “Even when England were in control during the first 30 minutes against Serbia, Saka was the only attacker running beyond the defence. He was brilliant, but there was too much responsibility on him to make those runs. 

“The lack of pace hurt England the longer the game progressed, so it was surprising Anthony Gordon was not introduced. There is also an argument that Ollie Watkins should have replaced Kane for the last 20 minutes because he is quicker and could have freshened it up physically.”