Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has hailed Arsenal's Declan Rice as the best midfielder in England, while also praising the impact of Manchester City's new signing, Elliot Anderson.
Both players have commanded transfer fees exceeding £100 million and showcased their talents together for the England national team at the World Cup. Anderson, in particular, shone in the recent 3-0 victory against Liverpool at Anfield.
Gary Neville, speaking on his Sky Sports podcast, expressed his admiration for the young midfielder's quick adaptation.
I thought Elliot Anderson was absolutely magnificent. There were big questions around the transfer fee and whether he could step in for Rodri and reach that level, given his move from Nottingham Forest. But he has already answered all those questions. When Declan Rice moved to Arsenal, we knew they were getting gold. I don’t think we categorised Elliot Anderson in that same bracket, but his understanding of the game is genuinely impressive. He dominated in big matches at Anfield and Old Trafford, and looks worth every penny spent.
Carragher concurred with his colleague but placed Rice slightly higher in his rankings.
If you are a Newcastle fan looking at Elliot Anderson, you are thinking: could they have sold someone else and kept him? Now you are looking at possibly the best midfielder in the country alongside Declan Rice. I would always put Declan Rice at the top of that list, especially after the end of last season when he helped Arsenal secure the title. This is a great sign for the England national team moving forward, as they have two midfielders at the top of their game in the Premier League.
