Elliot Anderson made his World Cup debut in England’s 4-2 win against Croatia last week
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England midfielder Elliot Anderson has revealed he looks to team-mate Declan Rice as a key inspiration for improving his own game, as both players seek to anchor Thomas Tuchel’s side in their World Cup challenge.
The pair, who were instrumental in last week’s opening group victory against Croatia, are set to feature again when England face Ghana on Tuesday.
Anderson, who is expected to earn his 11th cap, expressed his admiration for the Arsenal linchpin, who is participating in his fourth major international tournament.
Speaking to ITV about who he has learnt the most from, Anderson stated: "I’m going to say Dec. I think just watching Dec all season, playing in an England shirt.
“Although I’m playing alongside him, and we’ve got slightly different roles, I just think I love him as a player and I like to watch him and take things from his game. He’s been unbelievable this season for Arsenal. He’s someone I look up to."
Anderson revealed he takes inspiration from his midfield partner, Declan Rice
Anderson revealed he takes inspiration from his midfield partner, Declan Rice (PA)
The 23-year-old Nottingham Forest player has himself been the subject of significant transfer speculation, with Manchester City having a reported £120m bid rejected earlier this month.
Should City return with an improved offer, it would surpass the £105m Arsenal paid West Ham for Rice in 2023, which made him the most expensive English player at the time.
Defining his role under Tuchel, Anderson explained his focus on control and creativity.
"I’d like to say getting on the ball and giving the team control, and then getting our attacking players on the ball really, moving the ball forward. We want to play exciting football, we want the fans to watch and be on the edge of their seat and my job is to get the ball to the attackers and let them do their stuff."
Ahead of their second group game against Ghana in Boston, Anderson noted Tuchel’s emphasis on refining possession and encouraging greater self-expression.
He added: "I think just being tidy, being tidy on the ball, showing more of what we can do on the ball. We’re a very athletic side and we’ll give them a really tough match, but just being tidy with the ball and being more clean."