I'M A NIGHTMARE FOR DEFENDERS

Gordon's fearless and desperate to play a part on the biggest stage

- ANDY DUNN

ANTHONY GORDON was not at the back of the queue when they were handing out confidence pills.

In fact, there is no one in the Three Lions camp more bullish than the Newcastle United star when it comes to talking up his own strengths.

And in the countdown to tomorrow's clash with Slovakia, Gordon set out in no uncertain terms - his case for a starting spot in Gareth Southgate's line-up.

He declared: "I am very direct, I'm 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 the players we have got - the likes of H (Harry Kane), who likes to drop deep - I add a different element to the team.