Anthony Gordon's red-hot England form excites Barcelona

The winger returned from international duty having scored in three successive matches for England, taking his run to four consecutive internationals with a goal when his World Cup semi-final strike against Argentina is included.

That form will be encouraging for Barcelona coach Hansi Flick as his side enter an important period of the season.

Gordon has already made a positive contribution since arriving from Newcastle United, providing four assists in his first 10 appearances for club and country. His combined total of three goals and five assists is the best start to a season of his career.

His previous best came in 2023/24, when he had two goals and two assists after his opening 10 matches.

Gordon believes his qualities are now being recognised more clearly in Spain.

"In England, people respected me because I was fast and I pressed, but they never actually respected the quality and IQ that I play with," he told ITV Sport.

"Now that I'm playing at Barcelona, those qualities are highlighted much more."

The 25-year-old has also been impressed by the quality around him at Barcelona, particularly Pedri.

"I've made so many off-the-ball runs throughout my career that no one saw, but now I have Pedri who sees absolutely everything," Gordon said.

That understanding could become increasingly important as Barcelona face a demanding run of fixtures.

With Raphinha playing centrally, Gordon and Karim Adeyemi have competed for a wide attacking role. Adeyemi has produced more goals, but Gordon offers Flick a different threat with his pressing, movement and ability to combine with teammates.

His four assists underline that value, even though his first Barcelona goal has proved elusive.

Gordon has also been settling into life in Catalonia, with Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo helping him adapt to his new surroundings. The winger has said he understands some Spanish and is also making an effort to learn Catalan.

Barcelona now prepare for a busy spell, including El Clasico and a Champions League meeting with Paris Saint-Germain.

Their immediate focus, however, is Saturday's La Liga clash with Getafe at Spotify Camp Nou.