Everton winger hits back at critics, including Jamie Carragher and Danny Murphy, following accusations of simulation

Anthony Gordon has responded to accusations of diving, defending himself against critics after playing a pivotal role in helping England Under-21s qualify for Euro 2023. The Everton winger, 21, was targeted by former Liverpool players Jamie Carragher and Danny Murphy last season, with both accusing him of diving on multiple occasions, including a controversial booking for simulation in the Merseyside derby at Anfield in April.

Gordon, however, insists the accusations are unwarranted. Reflecting on his recent performances, particularly in England’s 3-0 victory over Albania, where he was fouled repeatedly, Gordon maintains that his style of play, often drawing fouls, is misinterpreted. “People have been calling me a diver lately, but I’m not sure why,” he said. “If you look at the games, I’m getting kicked quite a lot. I’ll take it as a compliment because I must be doing something right.”

The Everton forward pointed out that his aggressive, direct playing style, which sees him take on defenders in one-on-one situations, often leads to fouls, and his occasional falls are a result of the physicality of the game. “I’m not a diver, videos prove that. I might go down sometimes, but that’s because I’m getting kicked. I don’t know what people expect me to do,” Gordon added. “It happens to good one-v-one players. If you’re good at getting past people, you’ll get fouled now and then.”

Gordon’s manager, Frank Lampard, has also come to his defence, acknowledging the speed at which Gordon plays. “I spoke to the gaffer after the Liverpool game, and he said, ‘People don’t understand the speed you are travelling at.’ Any touch at that speed will knock me off balance, and I’ll probably end up on the floor, regardless of whether it’s a foul or not,” Gordon explained.

Gordon’s impressive season with Everton, in which he helped the club avoid relegation, has been a personal breakthrough, despite the pressure of high expectations. “I did feel the weight of responsibility towards the end of the season,” he admitted. “But I’ve always wanted that responsibility. I couldn’t hide from it.” The winger’s tally of four goals and two assists in 35 Premier League games reflects his development, though he acknowledges there’s more to come.

Looking ahead, Gordon expressed his desire to help Everton return to winning ways next season, setting his sights on a more successful campaign for both him and the club. “It’s been a good year for me personally, but as a club, it hasn’t been the best. Next year I want to push on and be part of a winning side. Everton should be aiming higher.”