Elliot Anderson covered 14.8 kilometers in stifling humidity against Norway, the most of any England player, as Thomas Tuchel's side secured an extra-time victory in Miami. The 23-year-old midfielder, who helped set up Jude Bellingham's equaliser, described the match as 'so tough' but praised the team's fighting spirit.
Anderson's Key Role in England's Midfield
Deployed in at least four roles during the match after Declan Rice was withdrawn at half-time due to illness and injury, Anderson completed 87 passes with a 94% success rate. He was instrumental in England's equaliser, surging down the left flank after a Norway goal-kick struck an overhead cable, combining with Anthony Gordon to set up Bellingham. Thomas Tuchel's assistant, Anthony Barry, has previously called Anderson 'a gift that fell from the sky'.
Morgan Rogers Makes His Case
Morgan Rogers, the Aston Villa forward, impressed in a deeper midfield role after replacing Reece James and Bellingham as Anderson's partner. His shot from outside the penalty area led to Bellingham's winner in extra time. Tuchel praised Rogers, saying: 'He’s one of my key players. I’m so, so happy about his performance today. He made a big step forward, especially in a new position – absolutely top.' Rogers scored 18 goals for Villa last season mainly as a No 10 but adapted to a double-six role defensively.
Fitness Concerns and Tactical Adjustments
Rice is expected to start the semi-final against Argentina, but Tuchel revealed the Arsenal midfielder spent most of the three days before the Norway game in bed due to illness. Rice arrived at the World Cup with back problems, limiting him to 100% fitness. Tuchel has been pushing Anderson forward and searching for a plan B when Rice tires. With Cole Palmer and Phil Foden absent, Tuchel tried Eberechi Eze in a deeper role against Ghana and Panama to mild success, but Rogers has now emerged as a viable option alongside Anderson.
Anderson's Journey from Under-21s to Senior Squad
Anderson, an alumnus of Wallsend Boys Club, which produced eight senior England internationals including Alan Shearer and Michael Carrick, enjoyed his best game since being promoted from the under-21s last summer. He emerged as a contender after starring as a midfield anchor for Lee Carsley's team at the European Under-21 Championship, where England won a second consecutive title. Originally a No 10 in Newcastle's youth teams, his technique has helped him transition to a deeper role.
Despite his impressive performance, Anderson acknowledged room for improvement: 'I think we could have made it easier for ourselves if we had played more football and didn’t have to run as much. At times it was good, and at other times it wasn’t so good. But there were glimpses and once we get it right I think we will be frightening.'
