Elliot Anderson returns to Newcastle on Sunday and Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo believes the ex-Magpies midfielder should be in Thomas Tuchel’s thoughts
Nuno Espirito Santo thinks Elliot Anderson’s name should be in the conversation when Thomas Tuchel names his first England squad.
Nottingham Forest ’s boss says the versatile midfielder has what it takes to step onto the international stage. Anderson was a surprise departure from St James’s Park last summer as the Magpies attempted to organise their finances.
And he has found a welcome home at the City Ground where, after a sluggish start, he has proved himself to be a vital cog as Nuno’s unfancied east Midlands outfit has surged into the Champions League placings.
Asked if the 22-year-old was ready for the Three Lions next month, Forest’s boss said: “I think he has enough talent to be regarded – the rest is up to Thomas and I won’t comment on that.
“When he started the season he was playing wide for us, giving us a lot of things in terms of possession. But his numbers in terms of assists and goals aren’t there.
“Now, he’s giving us that. He’s reaching the box, shooting. He’s got goals and he has to believe he can do it. I think it’s something he has and he can do.
“For his age, I think he has been really good. And the club operated well, bringing him here. And I think he can improve. His defensive work has been good. But it can be better.
“We’re trying to look at all the details with him. We don’t want him to overthink things. If he’s in position – try to take a shot – even if he’s not in a good position – don’t overthink it.”
Nuno said the Geordie returns home without having anything to prove. He added: “His focus has to be Newcastle – and he has to go there knowing he has nothing to prove to anyone and just to play his game.
“It’s as simple as that. He needs to improve your game – and the mistakes he made in the previous game? Eradicate them.
“However, he will have to be extra alert because the team that he is going to face knows him very well. This is what he should be thinking and I hope he’s thinking about this.
“If he’s not – I’ll tell him. And I’ll remind him on the day of the game.”
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Nuno has refused point-blank to talk about what might be as Forest have charged up the Premier League table. Asked if his squad had the conversation, he said: “The players don’t talk about it. They are just sitting down and thinking about the next training session.
“I don’t listen to what they talk about. We only talk about the Champions League and Europe when I’m with the media. Because it doesn’t mean anything. What’s the point?
“I understand all the questions – but it’s how we do it. You can dream whatever you want. Just change the ingredients of your dream. You wake up happier – but nothing changes.”
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