Anthony Gordon has quietly become one of England's most important players, according to BBC Sport, with the forward England's standout performer since the World Cup knockout stages began.
The report notes Gordon's rise has been built on consistent, high-impact displays rather than hype, making him increasingly difficult for the England manager to leave out of the starting XI. His direct running, work rate and end product have elevated him above several more established names in the squad, with BBC Sport framing him as close to "undroppable" heading into the business end of the tournament.
While the piece stops short of naming him a guaranteed starter for every remaining fixture, it makes clear that Gordon's recent form has shifted the conversation — he's no longer viewed as a squad option but as a genuine first-choice pick. For a player once seen as a fringe figure in the setup, it marks a significant change in status as England look to build momentum through the knockout rounds.