Joe Cole has tipped Elliot Anderson to start for England at the World Cup 2026 under Thomas Tuchel. The 22-year-old midfielder produced another standout display in Nottingham Forest’s 2-2 Europa League draw against Real Betis.
Anderson Impresses Again in Europe
Nottingham Forest, managed by Ange Postecoglou, looked set for victory until Antony’s 85th-minute strike rescued Betis a point. Igor Jesus had earlier scored twice in quick succession, cancelling out Cedric Bakambu’s opener.
Despite the result, Anderson’s influence dominated the headlines. He registered 67 touches, more than any Forest player except Ibrahim Sangare. He also created four key passes, one big chance, and won five fouls, while his two tackles underlined his balance between attack and defence.
Joe Cole’s Praise for Anderson
Speaking after the match, Joe Cole told TNT Sports: “I think he plays for England at the World Cup. I’ve watched him many times, I see something in him, he is a winner, there was a moment at the Euros, he was dropped for a game at the Under-21s and then he came on and he scored the penalty. There was some anger in his face, there was real belief, the way he snaps into tackles, and I am thinking to myself, as a player, I would want Elliot Anderson playing next to me and I think Thomas Tuchel has seen that and I think he has put himself in pole position, I really do.”
Growing Role for England
Anderson has already featured in recent internationals. He debuted in a 2-0 win over Andorra and impressed in the 5-0 victory against Serbia. His strong performances followed an outstanding Under-21 Euros campaign, where he scored a late penalty in the quarter-final win over Spain.
Manchester City and Manchester United have reportedly joined the chase for the midfielder. Cole, however, suggested Forest fans should prepare for his eventual departure.
“Forest fans won’t thank me for saying this, but he is not at this club for a long time, I think he is that good,” Cole admitted. “If he keeps playing like he did tonight, there are a lot of ifs and buts, there’s a long way to go, but if he keeps going on the trajectory that he is going on, the sky is the limit for the kid.”
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