Forest boss Espirito Santo backs Anderson for first England call-up

With the international break coming up in March, Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo believes Elliot Anderson is ready to receive his first Three Lions call-up. The midfielder is one of many English players hoping to make it into Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia. 

Espirito Santo hailed the 22-year-old for his development since joining Forest from the Magpies last summer. “When he started the season he was playing wide for us, giving us a lot of things in terms of possession. But his numbers in terms of assists and goals aren’t there. Now, he’s giving us that. He’s reaching the box, shooting. He’s got goals and he has to believe he can do it. I think it’s something he has and he can do," said Espirito Santo.

The former Tottenham and Wolves manager sees a lot of potential in Anderson, highlighting that he is yet to reach his peak. “For his age, I think he has been really good. And the club operated well, bringing him here. And I think he can improve. His defensive work has been good. But it can be better. We’re trying to look at all the details with him. We don’t want him to overthink things. If he’s in position - try to take a shot - even if he’s not in a good position - don’t overthink it," he added.

Asked if the Newcaslte United youth product was prepared to make the next step onto the international stage next month, Espirito Santo said: “I think he has enough talent to be regarded - the rest is up to Thomas and I won’t comment on that". Anderson has been a big part of Nottingham Forest's stellar season so far, scoring once and providing five assists. 

 

February 24, 2025