'I'm a nightmare for anyone' - Anthony Gordon makes his case for England starting spot as Gareth Southgate is urged to give Newcastle man a chance vs Slovakia

The Newcastle winger met with a minor accident earlier this week while on a recovery bike ride at the Spa & Golf Resort Weimarer Land in Blankenhain. The player suffered no lasting damage but he was left bloodied and bruised after the fall.

Despite the minor setback, Gordon remains confident about performing if Gareth Southgate hands him a starting lineup slot in the Three Lions' upcoming round of 16 clash against Slovakia. The 23-year-old claimed that he could prove to be a nightmare for any opposition if he is on the pitch.

Speaking to reporters, the youngster said, "My main strengths are I am very direct, I’m obviously quick. I know I am a nightmare for anyone that I play against. I’m positive. Every time I get the ball, I always try to make something happen. I’m not a very safe player, I am always going for it.

"I am always trying to put people on the back foot. With players we have got – the likes of H [Harry Kane], who likes to drop deep – I think I add a different element to the team."

After registering back-to-back draws in the group stage, England will now aim to elevate their performance in the knockout round and register a convincing win over Slovakia on Sunday to silence their critics.