Gareth Southgate 'can't ignore' Newcastle United star amid Marcus Rashford struggles

Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon should be forcing his way into Gareth Southgate's thoughts after he continued his stunning form with the only goal in Saturday night's win against Manchester United.

That was the verdict of former Magpies star Jermaine Jenas as he compared the contrasting form of Gordon and Red Devils counterpart Marcus Rashford. With his impressive work-ethic, high levels of intensity and quality on and off the ball, Gordon played an integral role in securing a win for Eddie Howe's side as they moved into the top five of the Premier League table.

By contrast, Rashford struggled to make an impact in the game and was completely outplayed at both ends of the pitch by the impressive Tino Livramento. The England forward was eventually put out of his misery when he was replaced Antony just after the hour-mark as he recent poor run of form was extended by a lacklustre display on Tyneside.

There have been suggestions Gordon's form - which now comprises of six goals and give assists in 20 appearances this season - should see him finally make the step-up to the senior England squad after firmly establishing himself as a key player in the Three Lions Under-21s side. Former Newcastle midfielder Jenas joined the list of pundits pushing Gordon's cause as he insisted Southgate can no longer ignore the impact the former Everton man is making at St James Park.

Speaking in the aftermath of the win, Jenas told TNT Sports: "I think he (Southgate) has got to give is serious consideration at the minute.

"One thing we know about Gareth is he is very loyal to his players, whether they are playing well or not, or even if some of them have not even been playing and he's still picking them. I think he will stick by Marcus Rashford for a period of time but you can't ignore what Anthony Gordon is doing at the minute.

"Again, that reliability that he's bringing, he's added goals and assists to his game. Ally (McCoist) mentioned that work-rate, that's the difference right now between him and Marcus Rashford. You watch Marcus, he doesn't want to run back, he doesn't want to track anyone, but Anthony Gordon, the work-rate he is getting through every game is unbelievable."

Gordon will hope to continue his impressive form when Newcastle return to action with a visit to his former club Everton on Thursday night.