Jamie Carragher has ranked Elliot Anderson among the Premier League’s leading midfielders after the Manchester City player’s commanding display in the 3-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield.
Anderson, who joined City from Nottingham Forest in a £116 million summer move, played a key role as Pep Guardiola’s side maintained their perfect start to the league campaign.
Carragher places Anderson just behind Declan Rice
The former Liverpool defender believes Anderson is already challenging Arsenal’s Declan Rice for the status of the country’s best midfielder.
“You’re now looking at arguably the best midfield player in the country alongside Declan Rice,” Carragher said after City’s victory.
However, Carragher continues to place Rice at the top of his rankings, pointing to the midfielder’s contribution to Arsenal’s title success last season.
“I would always put Declan Rice on top of that list, certainly at the end of last season when he helped Arsenal win the title,” he said.
Carragher also highlighted the significance of the pair for England, describing Rice and Anderson as midfielders who are “right at the top of the class in the Premier League.”
Anderson’s Anfield display strengthens City’s position
Anderson’s performance against Liverpool provided a strong indication of why City were prepared to pay such a substantial fee for him. He combined strong running and aggressive tackling with intelligent distribution during a match in which he controlled long periods.
The 23-year-old is not limited to breaking up attacks. He can carry the ball forward, influence the tempo and remain composed in demanding matches, giving City an additional dimension in midfield.
Rice remains ahead in Carragher’s assessment, but Anderson’s rapid progress is narrowing the gap. If he continues to develop at the same rate, the debate over the Premier League’s best midfielder could become increasingly difficult to settle.
