Anderson, 23, was eligible to play for Scotland due to his Glasgow-born grandmother and was selected by Steve Clarke for their Euro 2024 game with Cyprus.

He pulled out injured before opting for England – and then helped the Three Lions win the European Under-21 Championship last summer.

Liverpool‘s Harvey Elliott was named player of the tournament, scoring six goals including the opener in the final win over Germany, but Anderson also stood out and was picked in the best XI.

Anderson featured alongside Bournemouth‘s Alex Scott in midfield to provide England with a solid foundation – and the Forest player’s tireless running was particularly impressive in the 3-1 quarter-final win over Spain.

His injury-time penalty eased England into the semi-finals, where they beat the Netherlands, before defending their title in Bratislava.

The summer was to be another platform for Anderson as he continued his form into Forest’s chaotic season.

Despite four managers and the club sitting 16th, embroiled in a Premier League relegation battle, he has been a consistent presence.

In the crucial 3-0 win at Tottenham, which moved Forest three points above the drop zone, Anderson created the most chances (three), completed more passes (38), won possession the most (nine) and made more tackles (six) than any of his team-mates.

He has impressed staff with his commitment and regularly talks to the coaches to discuss the best way he can improve and contribute to improve the team.

His positional awareness has also earned praise although his work-rate and desire to cover as much ground as possible mean he often tires himself out – a potential backhanded compliment.

A demanding individual, on himself and his team-mates, Forest view him as having the potential to become a complete player.

“It’s been a big two years. I think I’ve done pretty well, to be honest, in the time I’ve been here, on and off the pitch,” said Anderson, who moved from Newcastle for £35m in 2024.

“I’ve matured as a person as well and thanks to the club for giving me that platform, going out there and letting me do my stuff.

“In players’ careers, you never know where you’re going to be. Moving from your hometown is a big step in your career. It was definitely something I needed to do and it has turned out really well. So I’m happy I made that step.”

His form has inevitably brought speculation over his City Ground future – with Manchester City – who he scored against this month – believed to be at the front of the queue to sign him this summer.

“I’m just focusing on my football at the moment and performing and trying to give everything for Nottingham Forest, really,” added Anderson. “So that’s all that’s on my mind.”

His expected seventh cap against Japan comes after he made his debut in September against Andorra.

“I hope so,” Anderson told BBC Sport when asked if he saw himself as an England regular now.

“There’s just so many good players in the England team. Obviously, I’ve played this year, but I’m also needing to perform in the Premier League and in the Europa League to keep the spot.”