England realise World Cup potential as stars show class after horror Jordan Henderson injury
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England are into the World Cup quarter-finals but suffered a worrying moment after full-time as Jordan Henderson suffered an apparent arm injury in the celebrationsThis was one of the all-time great England nights, it will simply be talked about for decades. Do not underestimate the magnitude of the win and what it could do for England's tournament prospects heading into a quarter-final clash against Norway.What happened on the pitch was monumental but equally, what happened off it also displayed why they have something that sets them apart from others.There is a brotherhood amongst Thomas Tuchel's squad and when Jordan Henderson tripped over the advertising hoardings and damaged his arm, England were leaving no man behind.The celebrations were cut short, they formed a huddle around Henderson and they patiently and painfully waited for specialist medical assistance.Not only will what happened sting and hurt every one of them but it will also given them an added level of motivation.Henderson is the father-figure that gels this dressing room together.
He's an older, experienced head who hangs around with Morgan Rogers and Jude Bellingham.If he is unable to play a part or even be around, England's camp for the rest of the tournament then it would be a major blow.Not because he's a frequent starter but because he's so important for the squad's harmony but the way the entire team responded to the incident was evidence of something truly special; an unbreakable team spirit and love for one another.That's without even delving into the nooks and crannies of one iconic and sensational England victory.On the face of it, Thomas Tuchel looked to have finally got his England starting XI to a tee - then Jarell Quansah saw red.Quansah had looked sturdy in parts, he is by no means a full-back but he was an adequate candidate for the task in the absence of Reece James as Djed Spence has hardly made the role his own.However, there is just no getting away from the fact his horror lunge on Jesus Gallardo was so high referee Alireza Faghani had no choice but to dismiss him.Outside of that, there was so much to admire about England's bold, ambitious and daring to display.However, history tells us nothing is ever straightforward where the Three Lions are concerned. It is ultimately what could prevent England from truly realising their full potential at this World Cup.We did see it in flashes though.
England, for significant spells, were actually punch perfect and looked like a team capable of hurting just about anyone.Two-goal Jude Bellingham was irresistable in every sense of the word, Harry Kane stepped up to deliver another clutch moment but the night also belonged to Anthony Gordon.Once he got a feel for the game, he was marvellous and drove at the Mexico defence all night.This version of Gordon will have Barcelona revelling in their purchase, not scrambling around frantically checking their back pocket for a receipt.Gordon deserved a large percentage of credit for England's vibrant start.Gallardo did not have the speed to keep pace and the left-winger's smart close control and touch to supposedly keep the ball in before he struck a shot that was saved by Raul Rangel gave England confidence.They have a saying amongst the squad and coaching staff, it's called "pounding the rock."It's about the rewards of persistence and Gordon, who was instrumental from the bench against DR Congo, justified reclaiming his starting spot.Here he took centre stage, alongside Bellingham, to justify the hype and Tuchel's faith in him.He won the penalty, connected with Kane, was purposeful, not passive, with his dribbling and looked capable of beating his marker every time.It was such a shame England ended up camping in their own box because Gordon looked determined to put Mexico to the sword.Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Upgrade your World Cup TV setup with the Sky Glass 'designed for football'This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.