Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has been speaking to the media before England’s friendly against Japan on Tuesday, the final home match before the World Cup and therefore a last chance for players to impress manager Thomas Tuchel.
“It’s always a big game when you play for England and I’m really looking forward to it,” said Anderson at a news conference on Monday. “It’s the last game before the World Cup and I’ve just got to try to do what I’ve been doing in the previous games.”
Many expect Anderson to be part of England’s starting midfield when Tuchel’s side begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia on 17 June.
Asked if he felt confident he would be in the team at the start of the tournament, the 23-year-old said: “I want it that way, but I’ve got the rest of the season left with Forest and I’ve got plenty of games and time until then.
“I’ve got to keep my standards high and make sure it happens.”
At club level, Anderson’s Forest team are striving to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
“Ultimately, all of the games are the same,” said Anderson, when asked about the contrast between being involved in the battle for survival and representing his country.
“I’m just going onto the pitch, trying to give my best and fighting for whatever strip I’ve got on. That’s all I’m doing.”