Elliot Anderson: Shades of Gazza – the rise of the Nottingham Forest and England midfielder
Anderson, 23, was eligible to play for Scotland because of his Glasgow-born grandmother and was selected by Steve Clarke for their Euro 2024 match against Cyprus.
He pulled out injured before opting for England – then helped the Three Lions win the European Under-21 Championship last summer.
Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott was named man of the match, scoring six goals including the opener in the final win over Germany, but Anderson also stood out and was named in the best XI.
Anderson featured alongside Bournemouth’s Alex Scott in midfield to provide England with a strong base – and the Forest player’s tireless runs were superb in Spain’s 3-1 quarter-final win.
His stoppage-time penalty saw England ease into the semi-finals, where they beat the Netherlands, before defending their title in Bratislava.
The summer would be another platform for Anderson as he continued his form in a turbulent season at Forest.
Despite four managers and a club sitting in 16th place, involved in the battle for the Premier League, he has always been there.
In the crucial 3-0 win at Tottenham, which moved Forest three points above the relegation zone, Anderson created more chances (three), completed more passes (38), won more times (nine) and made more tackles (six) than any of his teammates.
He has impressed the staff with his commitment and is always talking to the coaches to discuss how he can best improve and contribute to the development of the team.
His awareness of the position has also won him praise although his work rate and desire to gain as much space as possible means he is often tired – praise that may be due to the hands.
A stubborn individual, to himself and his teammates, Forest sees him as having the potential to become a complete player.
“It’s been a big two years. I think I’ve done really well, to be honest, when I’ve been here, on and off the pitch,” said Anderson, who left Newcastle for £35m in 2024.
“I have also grown as a person and I thank the club for giving me that platform, going out there and letting me do my thing.
“In player games, you never know where you’re going to be. Moving away from your hometown is a big step in your career. It was definitely something I had to do and it went really well. So I’m glad I took that step.”
His form has also brought speculation over his future at the City Ground – with Manchester City – who he beat this month – believed to be at the front of the queue to sign him this summer.
“I’m focused on my football at the moment and playing and trying to give my all for Nottingham Forest, really,” Anderson added. “So that’s all that’s on my mind.”
His expected seventh cap against Japan comes after he made his debut in September against Andorra.
“I hope so,” Anderson told BBC Sport when asked if he saw himself as a regular in England now.
“There are many good players in the England team. Obviously I have played this year, but I also need to play in the Premier League and the Europa League to continue playing.”
