Elliot Anderson is making his mark as a leading midfielder in the Premier League. His strength of character has been on full display in recent weeks. Anderson’s equaliser against his former club Newcastle United on Sunday earned Nottingham Forest a point.
The achievement is all the more remarkable given the recent death of his mother, Helen. Anderson laid a wreath on the pitch before Forest’s victory against Burnley in April.
Anderson’s Goal Edges Forest Closer to Survival
Anderson scored against Sunderland last month and then netted the equaliser on Sunday, just 48 hours after his mother’s funeral. The goal edged Forest to the brink of Premier League survival, confirmed three hours later with West Ham United’s defeat by Arsenal.
Anderson returned from the north east of England to face Newcastle following his mum’s funeral on Friday, a day after Forest’s Europa League semi-final exit to Aston Villa. He had already scored in the 5-0 win at Sunderland last month. He continues to produce for Forest.
"It did [mean a lot] – a few things going on recently, so it felt really nice," he told Sky Sports.
"We’ve made a U-turn and done really well. The manager is brilliant and we’re all behind him. It was a tough game in midweek but as the manager said, this group is full of fighters.
"Four managers has not been easy but we’ve all stuck together and fought for each other."
Manager Praises Midfielder’s Strength
Manager Vitor Pereira praised the midfielder’s courage after his fourth goal of the season following an emotional week.
"It’s difficult for me and I believe everybody can understand what he’s feeling inside," he said.
"But in the end I believe that he honours his mother, going on the pitch and running until the last breath.
"I think he wants a lot to score a goal, and he believes until the end. He’s a very, very talented player but is a strong, strong character. If not, it’s not possible."
Anderson’s Future Uncertain
Anderson has become an England regular this season, earning seven caps. He is certain to go to the World Cup as one of Thomas Tuchel’s trusted players.
Manchester United and Manchester City have him high on their wanted list this summer. Forest will struggle to keep him with no European football next season.
"I don’t have the answer," said Pereira when asked about Anderson’s future.
"I know he deserves the top of the world. But he’s our player. We need to enjoy him. Sometimes I work with top, talented players, but to find a top player with this character is not easy.
"I’m not thinking about next season. I’m thinking about finishing this season in the best position we can."
Forest are certain to make a huge profit on the 23-year-old, who cost £35m when he moved from St James’ Park.
"The unfortunate thing for Forest is that there is no way they can keep him this summer, he has been that good