Forget Harry Kane, England’s World Cup could hinge on ‘unbelievable’ player with jaw-dropping stats
England secured their place at the 2026 World Cup in style after thrashing Latvia.
England’s 5-0 victory against Latvia was dominated by Harry Kane, who broke two records with his brace in Riga.
The 32-year-old is in the form of his life for club and country, surpassing the 20-goal mark already despite the season only kicking off in August.
Kane was left on the bench for England’s 3-0 friendly win over Wales on Friday, October 9, but the former Tottenham man proved why he’s still the Three Lions’ most invaluable player against Latvia.
England sauntered to World Cup qualification with 18 goals, six wins from six and zero conceded, with one recent addition showcasing his importance to Thomas Tuchel.
Elliot Anderson was incredible vs Latvia
Elliot Anderson has cemented his place in the England squad with his performances in the last four games, and his exceptional form continued against Latvia.
The Nottingham Forest midfielder was deployed alongside Declan Rice and Morgan Rogers in the engine room, the exact midfield that started the win over Wales.
Anderson was incredible in every aspect of his game, most notably his powerful ball-carrying, exquisite passing range and press resistance.
| Elliot Anderson stats vs Latvia |
| 90 minutes played |
| 5 shots |
| 121/130 (93%) accurate passes |
| 2 dribbles |
| 150 touches |
| 2 fouls drawn |
| 7/10 ground duels won |
| 11 recoveries |
The 22-year-old completed 121 passes during his 90 minutes on the pitch, while registering five shots on goal, seven ground duels won and 11 recoveries.
Anderson, who has been compared to Steven Gerrard by Joe Cole after his ‘unbelievable’ performances for Nottingham Forest, was simply breathtaking to watch, and arguably even better than Kane.
Anderson is one of the first names on the England team sheet
England have lacked a combative presence in midfield for years, maybe even since Kalvin Phillips and Rice locked down the middle of the park during Euro 2020.
However, Anderson’s emergence into Tuchel’s plans is everything the Three Lions have been crying out for.
The former Newcastle United starlet is a ball-winning machine and someone whose presence will be vital in midfield against tougher opposition.
Anderson’s inclusion also enables Rice to maraud forward and make things happen in the final third. He provides much-needed defensive protection and a player capable of recycling possession wonderfully.
There’s no wonder Man United are interested in Anderson, as the midfield maverick is one of the first names on Tuchel’s team sheet.