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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jonathan Veal

Anthony Gordon admits surprise over Thomas Tuchel decision in World Cup semi-final loss

  • Anthony Gordon admitted he was surprised by manager Thomas Tuchel's decision to substitute him 11 minutes after he scored in England's World Cup semi-final defeat against Argentina in Atlanta.
  • The Barcelona winger explained that scoring elevates his confidence and adrenaline, noting that England lost control of the match after he was replaced by defender Ezri Konsa, allowing Argentina to score twice late on.
  • Gordon expressed that he will never fully get over the heartbreaking defeat , stating that while such significant losses leave permanent scars, they can also teach valuable lessons and help a person grow.
  • Addressing England's struggle to maintain ball possession, Gordon agreed with Tuchel that controlling games is not in the English DNA, contrasting it with the natural decision-making and retention skills he has witnessed playing in Spain.
  • Ahead of England's Nations League opener against Spain at Wembley, Gordon suggested that rather than forcing a Spanish style of play, England should capitalise on their own strengths of direct, physical football and counter-attacking.

IN FULL

Anthony Gordon: ‘English players can’t keep the ball like Spain. It’s not in our DNA’

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