‘Hasn’t worked’ - Newcastle and Manchester United legends agree on Anthony Gordon conundrum

Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney believe Gareth Southgate must unleash Anthony Gordon against Slovakia this weekend.

England take on the third-placed team from Group E on Sunday after stumbling through the opening throes of Euro 2024. A scrappy win over Serbia was followed by draws against Denmark and Slovenia - hardly setting the world alight despite being crowned pre-tournament favourites. 

The left flank has proven a problem, with Gareth Southgate attracting criticism for playing Manchester City star Phil Foden out of position. Gordon was given a two-minute cameo and started England’s best move of the game as Cole Palmer almost bagged a last-gasp winner.

Manchester United legend Rooney has urged the Three Lions to start the winger against Slovakia. He told the BBC: “I've been saying this since the start of the tournament. For me, Anthony Gordon has to play on the left. Palmer, after his performance, maybe he can play.

“With Phil Foden going home, hopefully everything goes well, that could make Gareth’s mind up. Naturally, Gordon comes in and that frees (Jude) Bellingham up more. I think that would be the change he makes.”

Newcastle United icon Shearer agreed, urging former teammate Southgate to be bold by picking Gordon and Palmer. He added: “I’m like Wayne, I’ve said before a ball was kicked that Gordon should play on the left-hand side. For me, he has to start. Palmer has to start on the right, it’s maybe time to rest Saka. 

“He played really well for 30-odd minutes in the first game but has done very little since. I would have either Bellingham or Marino in that midfield and Foden in the No.10 role. He has to make changes because what has been doing hasn’t worked.”