Paul Robinson uses one word to describe Anthony Gordon’s performance for England against Serbia

Paul Robinson had just one word to describe Anthony Gordon’s performance for England against Serbia, and it was the kind of praise every footballer longs to hear.

The Newcastle United winger was part of a Three Lions side that finally looked like a team ready to dominate on the international stage.

On Tuesday night in Belgrade, England brushed Serbia aside with a ruthless 5-0 victory, keeping their perfect World Cup qualifying record intact and strengthening their grip on top spot in the group as they edge closer to next summer’s tournament.

Two Newcastle players were named in the starting lineup for England, with Anthony Gordon occupying the left wing and Tino Livramento supporting him at left-back.

Both put in solid shifts, but the reviews on Gordon’s display were mixed. National media outlets were quick to rave about the electric performances of Noni Madueke and Morgan Rogers, yet not everyone agreed that Gordon was overshadowed.

Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson went out of his way to highlight Gordon’s contribution, describing him as “outstanding” during his post-match analysis.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Robinson said it was the best he had seen an England side play in a long time, stressing that this was exactly the type of display fans expect when facing teams like Serbia.

He praised England for refusing to ease off after building a commanding lead and singled out both Madueke and Gordon as being outstanding in the wide positions. For Robinson, Gordon deserved to be recognised as part of what he described as a “really impressive all-round performance.”

While England created most of their danger down the right flank, Gordon was anything but quiet on the left. He registered three shots on target, with one effort leading directly to Ezri Konsa finding the back of the net.

His willingness to take risks and drive forward gave England balance in attack, even if he did not shine quite as brightly as his teammates.

The night was not without blemish, however, as Gordon picked up a booking before being substituted in the 69th minute, making way for Marcus Rashford.

The competition for places in Thomas Tuchel’s squad is fierce, and Gordon knows his spot in the starting eleven is far from secure.

Rashford, who has been working his way back into the manager’s plans, scored from the penalty spot after coming off the bench. Though it was a straightforward finish, the Manchester United forward took it with confidence and immediately reminded everyone of his pedigree.

Some observers argued Rashford looked more dangerous than Gordon against Serbia, though context matters. Rashford was introduced when Serbia were down to ten men following Nikola Milenkovic’s red card in the 72nd minute, meaning he faced a more stretched and tired defence.

Another player circling the England picture is Jack Grealish, who has been in superb form on loan at Everton.

Operating on the left, Grealish has already delivered four assists this season and will have his eye firmly set on forcing his way into the World Cup squad.

His resurgence only adds to the pressure on Gordon, who must not only impress for England but also deliver consistent performances in the black and white of Newcastle United.

Gordon’s determination to secure his international future is clear. At 24, he is entering the crucial stage of his career where consistency and maturity matter as much as talent.

He knows that maintaining his place in a highly competitive England side will require more than occasional flashes of brilliance. He needs to become an automatic pick for both club and country, and that means making every opportunity count.

For now, his focus will shift back to club football, though he faces an immediate setback. Newcastle’s next fixture sees them take on Wolves at St James’ Park on Saturday, but Gordon will be unavailable due to suspension.

That absence denies him the chance to quickly follow up his England display with another strong showing in front of his home supporters.

Still, there is little doubt that Gordon has both the ability and determination to bounce back stronger when he returns.

His performance against Serbia may not have been flawless, but Robinson’s glowing endorsement is proof that his contributions did not go unnoticed.

Being called “outstanding” in such a convincing England victory is the type of recognition that can build confidence and serve as motivation.

Now the challenge for Gordon is to take that momentum back to Newcastle and continue proving that he belongs at the highest level, both in domestic football and on the international stage.