Anderson's impending £116 million switch to Manchester City is set to be just another chapter in his meteoric rise to stardom – and not a distraction from England's World Cup push, according to teammate Jarell Quansah.
The 23-year-old has been the talk of the town since bursting onto the scene last September, and his performances have caught fire at an alarming rate. That 4-2 win over Croatia was a real statement of intent from Anderson – he's a player who's not just making up the numbers, but driving England forward with every passing game.
Quansah knows a thing or two about Anderson's capabilities – they were team-mates in that Under-21 European Championship triumph last summer – and he's effusive in his praise. "He's fully focused on what he wants," Quansah says, "and right now, that's winning a World Cup with England. It's a big ask, but I know he's up for it."
Anderson's versatility has been the key to unlocking his potential – and Quansah is in awe of his range. "He's played deeper, as an eight or six, but he's got all the attributes you need from a midfielder," he says. "The England manager will be chuffed to bits with what he brings to the table."
England are almost certain of qualification for the knock-out stages – but Tuchel faces some tough calls ahead of Saturday's showdown against Panama, including whether to rest players or give them game time to build up fitness.
Source: PA