James McAtee eyes England call-up after finding form at Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest legend Des Walker believes James McAtee could follow Elliot Anderson into the England squad after a breakout start to the 2026/27 season.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC0 / Author: Timmy96
Midfielder James McAtee, who joined Nottingham Forest in a £30 million deal in 2025, is finally justifying his price tag. After a difficult debut campaign where he struggled for minutes, the 23-year-old has become a cornerstone of Oliver Glasner’s side.
A tactical shift to a 3-4-2-1 system has provided the former Manchester City academy graduate with the freedom to influence matches. His recent form, which includes back-to-back Player of the Month awards, has prompted calls for a senior England recognition.
Of course he can. The England squad is never a closed shop. Now he’s getting his chance in the Forest team, he has to perform consistently. Des Walker
Former Forest and Three Lions defender Des Walker noted that while the talent is evident, the team's position in the Premier League table will be crucial for the players to remain in the national spotlight.
Manager Oliver Glasner is delighted with McAtee’s adaptation following the sale of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City. The Austrian tactician explained that moving away from a direct replacement for Anderson allowed him to reconfigure the team, ultimately unlocking McAtee's potential as a creative pivot.