England midfielder Elliot Anderson put in two terrific performances during the international break.
First, Anderson starred in the 2-0 win over Andorra before another breathtaking display in the 5-0 drubbing of Serbia.
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The Nottingham Forest star was arguably the breakout player of the break, making a real statement for a permanent place under England boss Thomas Tuchel.
Across both international games, Anderson completed the most passes (182), most forward passes (48), and the most passes into the final third (66), showing his progressive game.
While he likes to play further forward, he has shown that he can hold his own in the base of midfield in the number six role, allowing Declan Rice to push forward.
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With Adam Wharton constantly battling niggling injuries, Anderson has emerged as a crucial cog in the engine room for Tuchel.
Anderson was equally excellent on the other side of the ball. He won possession the most times (23) and won the most duels (14).
The 22-year-old also won more tackles (five) and more aerial duels (seven) than any other Three Lions player, looking comfortable in the England shirt.
Tuchel reserved praise for Anderson. The German tactician reiterated that the Whitley Bay-born star deserved his place in the team and hailed him for “two excellent performances”.
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Anderson was a joy to watch. He was physically commanding, screening the defence superbly, winning the ball and instantly driving play forward.
Anderson looks like the balance England’s midfield has been crying out for. While Wharton lacks rhythm and Rice can sometimes slow circulation, the Forest man injects tempo and control.
His blend of bite out of possession and progressive passing gives Tuchel the option of a genuine deep-lying playmaker who can also shield the back line.
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He is disciplined enough to anchor and dynamic enough to break lines.
That skill set means England aren’t forced into choosing between stability and creativity at the base. If he maintains this level, Anderson may become the missing link in midfield.