The 20-year-old has featured in six games Premier League games for Everton this season, including two starts.
Gordon was among Everton’s standout performers against Watford at the weekend before they capitulated towards the end and lost the games 5-2, but was brought off at the hour mark because he is not ready to play the full 90 minutes, according to Benitez.
The Spaniard has insisted that he opted to not send Gordon out on loan this season because he sees great potential in him and stressed he is happy with his attitude both in games and in training.
Asked how close Gordon is to playing the full 90 minutes, Benitez told a press conference: “Do not forget that he was on loan last year.
“I kept him here because I could see the potential.
“So, I’m really pleased with his attitude and his commitment in every training session and during the game.
“Apart from that, you have to make decisions and the if I [think he is] a good option that is it.”
Benitez further explained that Gordon should be given minutes in a measured manner so as to gradually get the best out of him and ensure he is a much better player by the end of the season, which is his job as the coach.
“Anthony is working hard and getting better and if you ask him, he will say he is fine and can play 90 minutes for sure because he has to [say as he] is a Premier League player at the moment.
“I am really pleased with him.
“Hopefully he can play 90 minutes in a lot of games now and till the end of the season but my job is to make sure that he will play well.
“A lot of games, I know just put them on the pitch and just see what happens.
“So, I want to be sure he is improving, he is progressing and he will be a much better player at the end of the season.”
Everton are currently on a three-game winless streak and will be desperate to get back into win column on Monday when they take on Wolves at Molineux.
