Elliot Anderson can be excused for feeling fatigued following his intense performance in Miami. Reflecting on England’s extra-time win against Norway, the Manchester City star showed signs of exhaustion while speaking with fellow Geordie John Murray from BBC Radio 5 Live.
“It was so tough. So tough,” Anderson remarked, having covered an impressive 14.8km in the sweltering heat, the highest distance among England players, narrowly outpacing captain Harry Kane. “I was cramping up a few times [in extra time]. But the fighting spirit the lads have is amazing to be part of. The fans should be proud of the amount of fight and determination we showed.”
While Jude Bellingham garnered most of the attention, the Wallsend Boys Club alumnus, which has produced notable England internationals like Alan Shearer and Michael Carrick, delivered one of his finest performances since stepping up from the under-21s. He adapted to at least four different roles during the match as manager Thomas Tuchel continually adjusted his midfield following Declan Rice’s withdrawal at halftime due to injury and illness.
Morgan Rogers stepped in after Tuchel’s initial experiments with Reece James and Bellingham alongside Anderson. The 23-year-old proved to be a reliable presence throughout, completing 87 passes with a remarkable 94% success rate. He played a crucial role in England’s equalizer, taking advantage of a fortunate incident where the ball appeared to hit the overhead cable from a Norway goal-kick, then charging down the left flank and combining with Anthony Gordon to assist Bellingham.
Anthony Barry, Tuchel’s assistant, has previously referred to Anderson as “a gift that fell from the sky” highlighting his remarkable potential.
Anderson first emerged as a strong candidate for the senior team during last summer’s European Under-21 Championship, where he excelled as the midfield anchor, helping secure a consecutive title in Slovakia. His experience as a No 10 in Newcastle’s youth setup has greatly aided his seamless transition to a deeper role at both club and international levels.
Despite his impressive physical capabilities, Anderson hinted during his conversation with Murray that he cannot shoulder all the responsibility alone. “We could have made it easier for ourselves if we had played more football and didn’t have to run as much,” he noted. “It could be better. At times it was good and at other times it wasn’t so good. “But that’s football, isn’t it? Sometimes you set out a plan and we didn’t quite do it. But there were glimpses and once we get it right I think we will be frightening.”
“We played with Morgan Rogers in the eight and defensively as a double six,”
Rice is anticipated to resume his partnership with Anderson in the semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday, despite concerns over his fitness after spending most of the three days leading up to the Norway match in bed due to illness. Tuchel has been cautious with Rice, who arrived at the World Cup with back issues, limiting his ability to perform at full capacity. The manager has adjusted their usual roles, advancing Anderson while contemplating alternative strategies as Rice’s stamina wanes.
With numerous options for the No 10 role, even with Cole Palmer and Phil Foden absent, Tuchel had initially tested Eberechi Eze in a deeper position against Ghana and Panama, achieving moderate success. However, it was Rogers, the Aston Villa forward rumored to be leaving for over £100 million this summer, who partnered with Anderson effectively.
“He’s one of my key players. I’m so, so happy about his performance. He made a big step forward, like all our subs, but especially Morgan in a new position – absolutely top.”
Rogers netted 18 goals for Villa last season primarily as a No 10, showcasing his humility and adaptability by sacrificing individual accolades for the team’s benefit, particularly to enhance Bellingham’s opportunities.
The duo was recently featured in a mural near Rogers’ hometown of Halesowen, portraying them enjoying orange chips—a local delicacy. Having first played together for England’s Under-15s nearly ten years ago, they now have the chance to achieve the ultimate prize.
- England
- World Cup 2026
- World Cup
- features
