Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has lavished praise on England newcomer Elliot Anderson following the Nottingham Forest star’s standout performances during the international break. Anderson, 22, earned his first senior call-up after a stellar Premier League campaign and a strong showing at the Under-21 Euros — and he’s wasted no time making an impression.
🌟 Anderson’s Breakthrough Moment
Anderson was one of the few bright sparks in England’s 2–0 win over Andorra last Saturday, and he followed it up with another composed display in the emphatic 5–0 victory over Serbia in Belgrade. Operating as a holding midfielder — a role England have struggled to fill consistently in recent years — Anderson showcased maturity, tactical awareness, and calmness under pressure.
His performances have not only caught the eye of fans and pundits but also earned high praise from Rice, who has quickly become a vocal supporter of his new international teammate.
“He made it look so easy,” Rice told BBC Radio 5 Live. “He has done what he has been doing at his club for two years. He is a great addition to the squad. We need competition, and we need lads at their best.”
Elliot Anderson's first two appearances for England ended with two Man Of The Match awards ⭐️⭐️ pic.twitter.com/OvT11VQEU0
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) September 10, 2025
🧠 Tactical Fit and Future Role
England manager Thomas Tuchel appears to have found a new midfield option in Anderson. Speaking after the Serbia match, Tuchel explained his thinking behind the call-up and Anderson’s deployment as a No.6.
“When I saw him perform in the U21s final I had the idea that maybe he can be a No.6 and we can play to his strengths,” Tuchel said. “He was excellent in camp, like everyone else. The group made it as easy as they could for him, but he did all the effort that is needed and he had two excellent performances throughout.”
Tuchel emphasized that Anderson’s future in the squad will depend on his ability to maintain consistency and continue playing with “lightness and freedom.”
⚽ England’s Statement Win
Rice also reflected on the importance of England’s dominant win over Serbia, which solidified their position in World Cup qualifying.
“We knew it was going to be really tough coming here, but a five-star performance,” Rice said. “We took control from the very first minute… The mentality has been right all week, the attitude has been right. This was the big game this week and this puts us in a good position going forward.”
Just look at Elliot Anderson's stats 😮💨
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) September 9, 2025
After the midfielder's FIRST two England games, he ranks top in:
Successful passes (182)
Passes in the final third (66)
Forward passes (48)
Possession won (23)
Duels won (14)
Aerial duels won (7)
Tackles (5)
Credit @OptaJoe pic.twitter.com/gSSAX1sII2
