LONDON, ENGLAND — England winger Anthony Gordon has said the national team can win major tournaments by focusing on their own strengths rather than trying to copy Spain’s possession-based style of play.
Gordon made the remarks on Wednesday during a press conference at St George’s Park, where he addressed questions about England’s tactical identity ahead of the 2027 international calendar. He said England possesses a unique set of players with qualities that are different from Spain’s, and that the team should build its game around those qualities rather than attempting to imitate a style that does not suit them.
“Spain have their identity, and it has worked for them. But we have our own identity. We have players with pace, power, and directness. We should focus on our strengths, not try to be something we are not,” Gordon stated.
The Newcastle United winger noted that England has come close to winning major tournaments in recent years, reaching the final of Euro 2020 and the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup. He said the team’s best performances have come when they have played to their strengths, rather than trying to match opponents pass for pass.
“We have shown that we can compete with the best teams in the world when we play our own game. We don’t need to copy anyone. We need to believe in ourselves and in the qualities that we have,” he said.
Gordon also praised England manager Thomas Tuchel for instilling a clear tactical philosophy within the squad. He said Tuchel has encouraged the players to express themselves and to play with freedom, while also maintaining the discipline and structure required at the highest level.
“The manager has been fantastic. He has given us a clear idea of how he wants us to play, but he also allows us to express ourselves. He trusts us, and that is important,” Gordon said.
The winger said England’s goal for the next major tournament was to win a trophy, and that the players were determined to end the country’s long wait for international success. He said the mood in the camp was positive and that the players were confident in their ability to compete with the best teams in the world.
“We are not afraid of anyone. We have a talented squad, a world-class manager, and a clear plan. We believe that we can win trophies with this group of players,” he said.
Gordon’s comments come amid ongoing debate in English football about the national team’s tactical approach, with some pundits arguing that England should adopt a more possession-based style similar to Spain’s. But Gordon insists that England’s best chance of success lies in playing to their own strengths, rather than trying to emulate a team that has a very different profile.
“Spain have their way, and it has been successful for them. But our way can be successful too. We have shown that we can beat anyone on our day. We just need to believe in ourselves and to keep working hard,” he said.
As England prepares for their upcoming fixtures, the focus will be on whether Tuchel’s side can translate their undoubted talent into silverware. For Gordon, the key is for England to be true to themselves and to play with the confidence and conviction that has been lacking in previous tournaments. “We have the players. We have the belief. Now we need to go out there and deliver,” he said.
