Gordon says England should stick to their own style

Former Newcastle United midfielder Anthony Gordon has expressed his belief that England should abandon efforts to emulate Spain's possession-focused football style. Following England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina in July, manager Thomas Tuchel faced criticism for stating that possession was not in the English DNA, akin to Spain, where a passing-heavy approach is instilled at every level.

Gordon, who transferred to Spanish club Barcelona from Newcastle United last May, concurred with Tuchel's assessment and commented on Wednesday about England's inability to replicate Spain's game. The 25-year-old stated that culturally, cultural strength like Spain's isn't something England possesses and is unsure whether it can be taught.

Playing in Spain, Gordon could provide a firsthand account of their possession-based football. Gordon voiced his opinion ahead of England's Nations League match against Spain on Saturday, hinting that while improvements are possible, playing to England's strengths, which include physicality, direct play, and counterattacks, might be more effective.

England will face the Czech Republic and Croatia before playing the Czechs again at home in the upcoming fixtures of the Nations League group, which will conclude in November.