Lineker backs Gordon for England’s World Cup start over Rashford
As Barcelona decline to exercise their £26m option on Marcus Rashford, Gary Lineker suggests Thomas Tuchel will select Anthony Gordon for his pressing ability, utilising the Manchester United forward as a substitute.
Former England striker Gary Lineker has intervened in the debate surrounding England’s World Cup starting lineup, suggesting manager Thomas Tuchel will prioritise Anthony Gordon over Marcus Rashford for the opening fixtures. Speaking on Netflix’s The Rest Is Football, Lineker argued that while Rashford possesses superior individual talent, Gordon’s defensive work rate and pressing ability align more closely with the tactical demands of the tournament.
The selection discussion follows Barcelona’s decision not to exercise their £26m purchase option on Rashford, which expired on 15 June. The Catalan club, which Rashford helped retain the La Liga crown with 14 goals and 14 assists during the 2025/26 season, indicated they were unwilling to meet the valuation. Reports suggest Barcelona offered £13m or another loan stint, but Manchester United refused to budge on the initial terms.
Barcelona’s reluctance to retain Rashford coincided with their signing of Gordon from Newcastle United. The club viewed the Newcastle winger as younger and defensively stronger than Rashford, a factor that Lineker believes will influence Tuchel’s decision-making. Lineker noted that if Tuchel intends to employ a high-pressing system, Gordon’s statistical output in that area makes him the preferred choice for the starting left-wing position.
Despite the shift in Barcelona’s strategy, Rashford has removed all references to the club from his social media profiles, leaving only content related to the England national team. The former Premier League striker remains in the camp ahead of England’s campaign, which begins on Wednesday, 17 June, against Croatia in Arlington, Texas.
Lineker predicted that Tuchel would likely start the majority of matches with Gordon to provide energy and defensive structure, while utilising Rashford as an impact substitute. He emphasised that both players are expected to feature significantly in the tournament, stating that Rashford’s confidence and recent form at Barcelona make him a vital asset, even if he does not begin the opening game.
