Thomas Tuchel's England left-wing decision is becoming a proper contest between Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon. England open their World Cup against Croatia in Dallas on June 17, and Tuchel has already given Rashford the No11 shirt while Gordon was listed at 18. Rashford also arrives with last season's Barcelona output behind him, 2,261 minutes, 14 goals and 11 assists.
Why Rashford and Gordon both have a case
The numbers keep both players in the conversation. Rashford has 2 goals and 1 assist in his last five Barcelona matches, with a 6.88 average rating across that run. Gordon's last five Newcastle appearances are stronger on the ratings side, with a 7.16 average, plus 2 goals.
Tuchel's comments about Rashford were blunt and fair. Speaking to mirror.co.uk, he said: "He can be one of the best in the world because of the quality I see in training, the finishing with both legs and with the head. He is explosive, he is fast, he is strong in the air, so where are the limits? There are no limits - but the numbers don't reach the potential, it is as easy as that. He needs to push himself into goal involvements, that means goals and assists, it is as easy as that. He has the potential but potential is a dangerous word with high-level sports."
That last line matters. Tuchel is not questioning the talent, he is asking for end product, and the recent data backs that up. Gordon, meanwhile, has done enough at Newcastle to keep this feeling open rather than settled.
The shirt numbers add another layer
The No11 and 18 assignment is a small detail, but it fits the rivalry story. Rashford has the shirt that usually suggests first-choice attacking status, while Gordon has been put in the supporting slot for now. That does not decide the starting spot, but it does show where Tuchel is leaning before the opener.
There is also club subtext around Rashford that keeps the discussion messy. He is being judged as England's wide left option, while still carrying Manchester United baggage in the background and a Barcelona season that gave him a clear production line. If he starts in Dallas, it will be on merit, not sentiment, and Gordon will know he has plenty of chances to change that picture before the tournament begins.
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