Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson made his first start for England at a major tournament as the Three Lions beat Croatia 4-2.
The Reds’ midfield general was quality once he’d settled into his surroundings and helped England to a memorable win.
Elliot Anderson wants to win a major tournament with England – can the Three Lions claim glory at the World Cup this year?
There is still work to do for England at this tournament, and they will have to improve defensively as the World Cup progresses.
Anderson is wanted by Manchester City this summer, and on the evidence of this performance, Forest can command whatever transfer fee they like.
- READ MORE: Jude Bellingham raves about Elliot Anderson
National media rate Elliot Anderson’s England performance
The media naturally produced their own player ratings for the England game, and Anderson received a mixture of different ratings on the night.
The Telegraph scored him 7/10 and said: “Excellent pass set up Bellingham’s goal. Kept the ball moving for England. He was doing the Luka Modric role against the great Croatian himself. He started an attack with an excellent interception and did well to set Noni Madueke away early on. Whether he can control that midfield area is important to England’s chances at the tournament.”
BBC Sport gave him a 6/10 and added: “Played how he has ever since he first pulled on an England shirt, showing an impressive amount of maturity. His pass in behind the Croatia defence assisted Jude Bellingham’s goal.”
The Independent didn’t feel he was quite as good, only scoring a 6/10 and believing he struggled in the first half. They wrote: “Struggled in the first half, with England sloppy in possession. Appeared more comfortable when asked to be direct, and played a lovely first-time pass around the corner for Bellingham’s goal.”
However, The Guardian scored him an 8/10, feeling he was integral. Their reporter said: “Kept things ticking over nicely in midfield. Excellent ball to set up Bellingham’s goal.”
Anderson showcases true quality
Being England’s number eight isn’t easy, but Anderson showcased maturity way beyond his tender years last night.
Forest fans are largely resigned to losing Anderson this summer, with City and Manchester United keen on the midfielder.
The star boy has arrived at the World Cup! Sum up that Elliot Anderson performance using just ONE WORD!⭐
If last night’s performance is anything to go by, replacing him will be pretty much impossible!
The challenge for Forest is ensuring the transition is as seamless as possible when it does go, and regardless of what happens this summer, it was a proud moment for the Reds fan base watching Anderson strut his stuff on Wednesday night.
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