Anthony Gordon Fails to Convince Michael Owen as England's World Cup Wide Attack Misfires

England's wide attack has become a significant weakness at the World Cup, with Michael Owen and fellow analysts expressing disappointment in the performances of Anthony Gordon, Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford, and Bukayo Saka. Thomas Tuchel has struggled to settle on a preferred pairing of flanking attackers, with none of the quartet truly convincing despite multiple opportunities to impress during the tournament's progression toward the semi-final stage.

The Winger Problem

Going into the competition on North American soil, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford were expected to form England's primary attacking partnership down the wings. However, Saka has battled fitness concerns that limited his availability, while Rashford has encountered inconsistency alongside ongoing transfer-related distractions at Manchester United. Noni Madueke has filled in on the right flank for the injured Arsenal winger, while Anthony Gordon has occupied the left wing position, but neither has demonstrated the cutting edge required at this level of competition.

Owen told media outlets that the three attacking players positioned behind Harry Kane represented England's supposed strength heading into the tournament. "It's not really worked out like that," he stated, noting that Kane and Jude Bellingham have emerged as the team's true standout performers instead. The wide attackers have managed only adequate displays when given opportunities, failing to convert their chances into goals and assists at a rate befitting their quality and positioning. Six matches into the tournament, with two significant contests remaining, the winger contingent has underperformed relative to preseason expectations.

Tactical Adjustments Ahead

Ahead of England's semi-final clash against Argentina, Owen suggested that Tuchel should consider tactical adjustments, particularly regarding the right-wing position. He recommended bringing Saka back into the starting lineup in place of Madueke, citing the Arsenal player's superior ability to run at defenders and create separation. Both wingers share similar attributes, yet Saka's quality and experience may provide the edge needed against world-class opposition. Owen acknowledged that Tuchel has maintained a settled team throughout the tournament and is unlikely to implement wholesale changes, but a targeted adjustment at right wing could unlock improved attacking potential.

England reached this stage by defeating Norway in the previous round, though the performance raised concerns among observers. Norway arguably played better football during the match, suggesting England's path to the final depends heavily on tactical refinement rather than relying on current momentum. The semi-final against defending champions Argentina presents a chance for the wide attackers to prove their worth when it matters most. With only two matches separating England from potential World Cup glory, individual performances in attack may determine whether the tournament is remembered as a success or a missed opportunity.