Following England's victory over Andorra, manager Thomas Tuchel has strongly hinted that midfielder Elliot Anderson will be in the starting lineup for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Serbia. Anderson, who recently made his senior debut for England, impressed Tuchel with his performance, suggesting he could be the solution to England's midfield issues.

Tuchel praised Anderson's physicality, mobility, and defensive capabilities. "He's just a very, very good football player," Tuchel said. "He has the physicality, he's very mobile at No 6. He has the body, he loves to defend, he loves to put his body inside to duels. He loves passing, he loves to break the lines, he's very mobile in this game. It was a pleasure to see". He also noted Anderson's ability to adapt to the situation and replicate his performances from club level with Nottingham Forest and the under-21s.

The 22-year-old Anderson earned his first senior call-up to the England squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. His debut against Andorra at Villa Park saw him partner with Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze in midfield. Anderson's composed display and near goal impressed, solidifying his case for a starting role against Serbia.

Tuchel faces a midfield dilemma as the World Cup approaches. He has been searching for the right central midfield pairing and has called up several players to try and address the issue. With Adam Wharton's withdrawal due to injury, Anderson has a significant opportunity to stake his claim in the team. Tuchel has made it clear that he prefers not to play Rice in a deeper role, further increasing Anderson's chances.

Anderson's journey to the England squad has been unconventional. He previously represented Scotland at various youth levels before switching his allegiance to England. "It was a tough move at the time but ultimately, I probably wouldn't be sitting here now if I didn't make the move," Anderson said. "Sometimes you've got to step out of your comfort zone and believe in yourself, which is what I've done". He was part of the England U-21 squad that won the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in 2025.

Looking ahead to the game in Belgrade, Tuchel anticipates a challenging environment. "We expect a very emotional stadium, we expect an emotional crowd," Tuchel said. "We don't know what the pitch looks like. Make no excuses". He also highlighted Serbia's physicality and direct attacking style. "We have to step up and adapt to the circumstances, adapt to the opponent and then prove the point we are a strong group and we are on the right way," Tuchel stated.

Tuchel emphasized the importance of proving a point in Belgrade and believes that his team is ready for the challenge. "Now we will prove a point in Belgrade," Tuchel said. "The way is to win and to be tough". He wants his team to overcome the adversity and secure another win, further solidifying their position at the top of Group K. A victory against Serbia could leave England eight points clear in their World Cup qualifying group.