The international break is now in full flow as plenty of Arsenal stars have jetted around the world to represent their nation.
World Cup qualification action has been ongoing across each continent, as teams vie to secure a spot in the 2026 tournament.
18 Arsenal stars are on international duty, where they look to pick up some fitness and form for a return to Premier League action.
Bouncing back from the defeat to Liverpool won’t be easy, as some big games are around the corner for the Gunners.
That includes a tie with Nottingham Forest, with one star seemingly in fine form before the encounter with Arsenal.
English media praise Elliot Anderson ahead of Nottingham Forest showdown for Arsenal
Arsenal are set to face Nottingham Forest upon their return from the international break, with the hope of kick-starting another winning run.
It won’t be easy, as the City Ground outfit have been known for their steely defence and devastating counterattacks.
Part of their success comes in line with the arrival of Elliot Anderson last summer from Newcastle United.
A versatile midfielder who can play anywhere from deep to a more advanced role, he is a clear threat for Arsenal to be aware of.
They have been clearly warned of his skill, following a Player of the Match performance on his England debut against Andorra.
The English media gave a clear view on the star, with BBC Sport giving him a 7.5 out of ten rating on the evening.
“A really solid debut for the Nottingham Forest midfielder,” the report stated, before adding: “Looked like he had been playing that role for his country for a long time… Not really tested defensively but a very good start to international football.”
TalkSPORT gave him an eight out of ten, stating: “England’s standout player, passing, speed of thought, very impressive.”
The Mirror simply said: “England’s best player. Highly-impressive debut in a good audition for the No.6 role.”
It’s a clear warning for Arsenal, as Anderson will be part of a Forest team that won’t make it easy for the Gunners.
Declan Rice will be key in the Elliot Anderson match-up during Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest
Anderson is a key figure for Nottingham Forest; his ability to receive the ball from the backline and drive up the pitch is important to their game plan, which is to frustrate the opposition by being clinical in both boxes.
His style can, in some ways, mirror that of Declan Rice in the Arsenal team.
Both are versatile in their positioning, capable of playing deeper or more advanced, while they cover a lot of ground.
Rice was the midfield partner for Anderson in the England clash with Andorra, but he may be the key to stopping him when their club teams meet next week.
The winner of that battle will likely decide the overall match winner, as it’ll be key to either team achieving their aims in the game.
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