Anthony Gordon update: Eight players exit England squad, Newcastle teammate called up

Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon has joined the England squad for this month’s Nations League games.

England will face group leaders Greece on Thursday before hosting the Republic of Ireland on Sunday in the final international break of 2024. Anthony Gordon was initially considered a doubt for these matches after limping off with a hip injury during Newcastle’s 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest.

Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe mentioned, “It looks like a similar problem to the one he had a few weeks ago with his hip. We hope it’s not serious, but I don’t know yet. I’ve not spoken to him.” When asked if Gordon might miss the England games, Howe confirmed, “I’d say because he’s come off, yes.”

However, Gordon was later spotted working in the gym at St George’s Park with the England squad. While there’s been no further update on his fitness, Gordon remains part of the squad and has not been listed among the eight players who have withdrawn.

The players confirmed to be missing are Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Phil Foden, Levi Colwill, Jack Grealish, Aaron Ramsdale, and Declan Rice. In their place, Newcastle’s Tino Livramento has been called up, aiming for his first international cap, as has Lewis Hall. Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen, and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite also join the squad. Additionally, Burnley’s James Trafford, a summer transfer target for Newcastle, has been selected over Nick Pope as the third-choice goalkeeper.