A Dream Come True for Anthony Gordon
Newcastle forward Anthony Gordon's childhood dream of playing for the senior England squad has finally come to fruition. Gordon, who has had an impressive season, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists, has caught the attention of the England national team selectors. This has led to his exciting call-up, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
Interestingly, Gordon had the option of playing for Scotland, thanks to his grandparents, but his ambition has always been to don the England shirt. "It was never a thought for me — that's no disrespect to Scotland at all. I’ve been tunnel vision on playing for England since I was five, six years old, and nothing could ever shake that off," Gordon revealed, emphasizing his unwavering dedication to achieving this goal.
A Season of Hard Work Paying Off
His remarkable performance this season is no accident. Gordon's hard work and consistency have made him a standout player, eventually leading to his selection for the national team. The 22-year-old believes his form has earned him the prestigious call-up, highlighting the importance of consistency in securing a spot on England's competitive squad.
"Consistency in performance is crucial for getting into the England team, and I think I have been very consistent this year," Gordon said, reflecting on his journey to the senior team. This mindset underscores the high standards set by the national team and the competitive environment within the squad, which Gordon views as beneficial for his growth as a player.
Gordon's contributions also played a pivotal role in England winning the Under-21 European Championships last summer, further showcasing his potential and promise on the international stage. Looking ahead, Gordon is poised to leverage this opportunity to cement his place in the team, especially with England scheduled to face formidable opponents like Brazil and Belgium in their upcoming matches. These games are crucial, serving as the last evaluations before the squad selection for the Euros.
Embracing the National Team's Competitive Spirit
Gordon is under no illusion about the challenges that lie ahead. The England squad boasts a wealth of attacking options, and breaking into the starting line-up will require continued hard work and excellence. "From the outside trying to break into it, you know you have to be really consistent and on your best form to even get near the squad because of the level that's around me in my positions," he stated, acknowledging the tall order that awaits him. Yet, Gordon is thrilled about the learning opportunity, expressing how training with some of the best players in the country is an invaluable experience.
Reflecting on the timing of his call-up, Gordon feels that everything has fallen into place at the right time. "Maybe if I'd come in earlier, it would have been a bit too early. It's all in good time," he remarked. This illustrates his belief that every step of his journey, including past setbacks, has prepared him for this moment. It's a testament to his patience and faith in his abilities, waiting for the opportune moment to prove himself on the international stage.
Gordon's Unwavering Passion
Gordon's story is a powerful narrative of determination and passion for the game. From a very young age, wearing the England jersey was more than just a dream; it was a goal he set out to achieve against all odds. "It’s been a dream I’ve had since I was so young, and nothing else has ever entered my mind," Gordon confessed, encapsulating his journey from a hopeful young boy to an England international.
As England prepares for its upcoming fixtures, Anthony Gordon's inclusion in the squad brings fresh excitement and promise. The young forward's journey from dreaming about playing for his country to achieving it is an inspiring tale for aspiring footballers everywhere. With his eyes set on making the most of this opportunity, Gordon is ready to contribute to the team's success and continue his development among England's elite. Only time will tell how far this dream will take him, but one thing is certain: Anthony Gordon's childhood vision of playing for England is now a vivid reality.