World Cup 2026: ‘Anthony Gordon will struggle to keep his place’ – Gary Neville warns winger after Ghana draw

Former England defender Gary Neville has suggested that Anthony Gordon is “under the most pressure” to retain his place in the side after England’s 0-0 draw with Ghana in their second World Cup Group L match.

Gordon, who joined Barcelona from Newcastle ahead of the tournament, started both group games but again struggled to influence proceedings as England were held by a disciplined Ghana side.

England, led by Thomas Tuchel, dominated possession for long spells but found little penetration, extending a recent trend of second-group-game frustration at major tournaments.

Selection doubts after Ghana stalemate

Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Neville suggested the winger could soon lose his starting role as competition for attacking places intensifies.

“Anthony Gordon, he’s probably the one that’s under the most pressure now,” Neville said.

“We all thought he probably wouldn’t play (against Ghana), we thought maybe Marcus (Rashford) would come in or something like that, but he stayed on.”

“Difficult to keep his spot” warning

Neville further questioned Gordon’s ability to hold onto his position if performances do not improve, hinting at imminent changes in Tuchel’s attack.

“I think he’s the one that’s going to find it a little bit difficult to keep his spot.”

England’s blunt display against Ghana saw them fail to register a shot on target in the first half, with Ghana’s compact defensive shape restricting space throughout a match played in steady drizzle.

Despite late attacking changes, including the introduction of Marcus Rashford among others, England could not break through a side well organised by Carlos Queiroz, leaving the contest goalless and intensifying scrutiny on the team’s forward options heading into their final group fixture.