Shearer's One-Word Verdict on Anderson as Bellingham Heaps Praise on Forest Midfielder

England made a statement of intent in their 2026 World Cup opener, dispatching Croatia 4-2 at Dallas Stadium on Wednesday in what proved to be one of the tournament's most thrilling encounters to date.

Elliot Anderson, operating as one of Thomas Tuchel's two holding midfielders in a 4-2-3-1 setup, was instrumental in the commanding display. The Nottingham Forest man proved a commanding presence in the engine room, fully validating his spot in the starting eleven.

Anderson's evening was particularly notable for providing the assist for Jude Bellingham's goal, though his overall contribution extended well beyond that single moment of creativity. After a somewhat quieter opening 45 minutes, the 23-year-old stepped up considerably after the interval, demonstrating the maturity required at this level when Rice departed the field.

The midfielder's performance has attracted attention from two significant figures in English football. Alan Shearer, responding to Anderson's social media post celebrating the victory, simply offered: "Outstanding man" alongside three clapping emojis. Bellingham, his Real Madrid teammate, was equally effusive, commenting: "Some pass brother" on Anderson's post-match reflection.

Anderson himself marked the occasion with characteristic understated professionalism, posting: "Start as we mean to go on. Let's go! World Cup debut"

The Forest midfielder remains a potential target for Manchester City ahead of the summer transfer window, though his World Cup credentials appear to be strengthening by the match.