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Micah Richards shares what Elliot Anderson’s best ability is before England play Ghana

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England were left frustrated by Ghana in their second World Cup group game as Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson started once again during the 0-0 draw.

England’s best chance came in the 87th minute when Harry Kane flashed a left-footed effort over the bar when it seemed easier to score.

Anderson kept his place in the starting eleven for the second group game, and the number eight now looks well set in Thomas Tuchel’s team.

In the build-up, the talk had been about the Forest man and how he played in the first game, with Declan Rice praising Anderson for his efforts.

🔢Fill in the gap: Elliot Anderson was __/10 vs Ghana

Anderson played for the second time at a major tournament for England!

England v Ghana: Group L - FIFA World Cup 2026
Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images

Pundits had their say before the match kicked off, and Micah Richards offered some insight into what really impressed him about the number eight.

England midfielder Elliot Anderson
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

What Micah Richards loves about Elliot Anderson

Richards was part of the BBC coverage for the England clash on Tuesday, and when talk moved towards Anderson in the build-up, he shared what he really likes about the Forest midfielder.

He said: “It’s the pace and purpose of his passing for me. He really fires it in, and it takes skill to do that on a regular basis.

“Of course, he doesn’t always get it right, but we saw with his assist in the first game, he’s not frightened to take that risk and make those types of passes.”

Anderson could well be playing for Richards’ beloved Manchester City next season, given the links surrounding his future.

For now, however, Forest can continue marvelling at Anderson’s performances on the international stage at this year’s World Cup.

England should still top Group L

England will need three points against Panama on Saturday to top Group L, and the hope will be that the Three Lions can bounce back quickly from this showing.

Anderson was largely alright during the contest, but Forest fans will know they’ve seen much better from him previously.

If anything, this provides England with a little reality check, and the hope will be that some chances can be taken in Saturday’s final group clash with Panama.