Harry Kane praises Barcelona boost for Anthony Gordon and hails Trent Alexander-Arnold

England captain Harry Kane says Anthony Gordon’s move to Barcelona has given the winger the confidence to reach a new level for the national team.

Gordon scored England’s opening goal in their 2-0 victory over Czech Republic on Tuesday, taking his tally to three goals in his past three international appearances.

The 25-year-old has offered more than goals during that run, according to the Daily Mail, with his pace and willingness to run behind opposing defences making him England’s biggest attacking threat under Thomas Tuchel.

“Moving to Barcelona has helped him,” Kane said after the win against Czech Republic. “Sometimes going to a big club like that gives you more confidence and pride. You feel you belong on the biggest stage, and he has transferred that feeling into his performances for England.”

Barcelona paid £69m to sign Gordon from Newcastle before the World Cup. He has since impressed on England’s left wing, scoring against Argentina in the World Cup semi-final and against world champions Spain at Wembley on Saturday in the Nations League.

He then added a headed goal against Czech Republic, taking his international total to four goals in 25 matches.

“He has made a difference,” Kane added. “He is always looking to play directly and be the one who gives us the lead, and he finished the chance brilliantly as well. Those touches are not easy, but he executed them perfectly. He is an important player for us now.”

Kane also praised Trent Alexander-Arnold after the Real Madrid defender created Gordon’s goal with an excellent delivery in his first start under Tuchel.

Alexander-Arnold has not enjoyed the same momentum since leaving Liverpool for Real Madrid in 2025, but his performance offered a reminder of the creativity he can provide from right-back.

His defensive qualities were not tested extensively because Czech Republic played with 10 men for more than an hour, but Kane was impressed by the full-back’s overall contribution.

“Trent is exceptional,” Kane said. “His passing, shooting and crossing, and defensively as well, he was excellent. You know he is a great player.

“Trent has to keep his head down and continue working hard. He has been great in the camp so far, in the way he trains and pushes himself and those around him. He is showing the manager that he wants to be here, that he wants to be part of this team, and he put in a great performance.”