Elliot Anderson is England’s spirit animal – and is now indispensable

In a gripping encounter against Croatia, Elliot Anderson showcased his undeniable importance to the England squad. With Declan Rice sidelined due to injury, Anderson stepped up to anchor the midfield, displaying resilience and tenacity. In the dying minutes of the match, as the clock ticked to 88, Anderson was still on the hunt, relentlessly pursuing the ball and putting pressure on Croatian defenders Josip Sutalo and Josko Gvardiol. His relentless spirit and work ethic exemplify the qualities that make him an essential player for England, especially with more challenging fixtures on the horizon. Anderson's ability to recycle possession and disrupt the opposition's flow has become a cornerstone of England's tactics, highlighting his evolution into a key figure in the squad.