Gordon: 'Scotland were never a thought for me'

Newcastle forward Anthony Gordon has revealed that playing for Scotland at international level was "never a thought". 

Called up for the senior England squad for the first-time, for the Three Lions' forthcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, Scotland had reportedly been interested in Gordon, who has Scottish grandparents. 

The 23-year-old has enjoyed an impressive season for the Magpies with 10 goals and seven assists across all competitions, and there were reports that Scotland would make a move for Gordon after he missed out on Gareth Southgate's last squad. 

After his recent call-up, however, Gordon has downplayed any suggestion that he had considered switching allegiance. 

"It was never a thought for me - that's no disrespect to Scotland at all." said Gordon.

"I've been tunnel vision on playing for England since I was five, six years old and nothing could ever shake that off. I would never forgive myself if I didn't get to this point.

"It's been a dream I've had since I was so young and nothing else has ever entered my mind."

After winning the Under-21 European Championships with England last summer, Gordon is vying for a place in the senior squad for Euro 2024 and the forward feels he has added consistency to his game this season. 

"I don't think I have ever been as consistent in my career so far," he added.

"If you aren't doing that, you aren't going to get into this team. I'm quite thankful for that as I get to show a great account of myself now.

"Maybe if I'd come in earlier it would have been a bit too early. It's all in good time.

"From the outside trying to break into it, you know you have to be really consistent and on your best form to even get near the squad because of the level that's around me in my positions.

"I've been able to do that this year. Now I'm just relishing it and I get to train and stuff, and the standard is so high and I'm learning from the best players in the country."

In boss Southgate's last opportunity to work with his players prior to naming a training squad in May, England face Brazil at Wembley on Saturday before they host Belgium on Tuesday.