Thomas Tuchel to make ‘huge’ Elliot Anderson decision as new England ‘problem’ emerges
Elliot Anderson has been backed to secure his place in Thomas Tuchel’s England plans following his impressive displays against Andorra and Serbia.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that Tuchel has a “huge” call to make as he begins to plan for the World Cup.
Anderson delivered a standout performance against Andorra on his senior international debut, before another classy display in the big win against Serbia.
The England boss is believed to be a big fan of what he can bring to the team, and his form over the international break has done his long-term chances no harm.
Meanwhile, his displays have attracted interest at club level as well, after Brown told Football Insider that Man United are considering signing Anderson.
Elliott Anderson backed to make Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad
Tuchel has been a long-term admirer of Anderson, having previously spoken highly of him and the role he can play in his England side despite competition in his position.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, has insisted the midfielder has now made a strong claim to be part of the World Cup squad in 2026.
“Tuchel is going to have some huge decisions to make now,” he told Football Insider.
“At this stage, they have to start thinking, if the World Cup was next week, what would the starting XI look like? Because it’s not far away now.
“Anderson certainly hasn’t done himself any harm, he’s been very impressive.
“He was picked by Tuchel to play in a certain role where England have had a problem recently, and he did what was asked of him very well.
“He’s not just a holding number six who sits in front of the back four and plays 10-yard passes backwards and sideways under no pressure, he’s not afraid to take risks.
“He’s a proper midfield player who can get about the pitch very well, and what he gives you in possession is something England have been lacking for years now.
“It seems to me that he’s put himself right in the mix and has a high chance of making that World Cup squad and I have no doubt the manager liked what he saw.
“If he keeps playing like that in an England shirt, and impresses for Forest as well because club form plays a big role, I see no reason why he wouldn’t be included.”
The Nottingham Forest midfielder has certainly impressed with his England displays, but is likely to face stiffer competition in future international breaks.
Anderson tipped to solve England ‘problem’ after what Gareth Southgate said
Anderson could solve an issue England have struggled with at the base of their midfield since Kalvin Phillips played a crucial role at Euro 2020.
Gareth Southgate was outspoken about the issue during his tenure, as he told BBC Sport in June 2024 that they have so far struggled to find a “natural replacement” for Phillips.
Alternatives to Anderson include Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, who dropped out of the most recent squad due to an injury, and Man United’s Kobbie Mainoo.
However, while Mainoo has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford, his rival’s form for Nottingham Forest has catapulted him to the top of England’s list.
Wharton has been tipped for England stardom despite not yet having played under Tuchel, while he gained major tournament experience with his country during Euro 2024, but Anderson will aim to beat off rivals and cement his role in the side.
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