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Gareth Southgate may unleash a secret weapon vs Spain. (Image: Getty)
Teddy Sheringham has been surprised by England winger Anthony Gordon's lack of involvement throughout Euro 2024, especially after an impressive yet brief cameo against Slovenia. But Gareth Southgate could be preparing to unleash Gordon in Sunday's final against Spain if England adopt a counter-attacking approach.
Spain have comfortably been the most impressive side at Euro 2024, winning all six of their matches - including victories against Croatia, Italy, Germany and France.
Luis de la Fuente Castillo's confident and technically gifted team are expected to play on the front foot against England.
And if the Three Lions must resort to playing on the break, boasting a player of Gordon's speed and directiveness could prove a powerful weapon.
But the 23-year-old has had a minimal role in Germany, featuring in the final five minutes of England's 0-0 draw against Slovenia at the end of Group C.
Despite his short-lived appearance, Gordon created one of the only chances of the game, leaving supporters baffled as to why he's been predominantly absent.
Sheringham is among those calling for the Newcastle United man to be handed a chance to make an impact like Ollie Watkins did off the bench in the 2-1 semi-final win against the Netherlands.
"I'm surprised, with the way that England have played, that Gordon hasn't been used," Sheringham told Express Sport on behalf of Online Poker.
Anthony Gordon has played five minutes at Euro 2024. (Image: Getty)
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"I think he had a little cameo, I think he's had five or 10 minutes maximum, and I thought he did very well when he came on [vs Slovenia].
"You know, he slid a beautiful pass straight through the middle of the pitch to someone who turned that into a chance."
But while Sheringham believes Gordon would solve one of the major criticisms of England's style of play, he refrained from questioning Southgate.
The 53-year-old is the first manager to guide the men's national team to two major finals after also going all the way at Euro 2020.
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Sheringham added: "But he also gives problems to defenders in behind, and we've been very playing in front of defences at the moment. I think that's what most people have a problem with.
"When Gordon's in the team, at least he stretches the defence and makes them worry about him in behind a little bit.
"So I'm surprised he hasn't been used a little bit more, but, you know, when you get to a final, who can accuse Gareth of doing anything wrong?"
Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham are in line to start alongside Harry Kane from the off against Spain. But, like Watkins, Gordon could very well be the hero of the night.
