Anderson shows character to go with talent after personal loss

Anderson returned from the north east of England to face Newcastle following his mum's funeral on Friday, a day after Forest's Europa League semi-final exit to Aston Villa . He had already scored in the 5-0 win at Sunderland last month as he continues to produce for Forest. "It did [mean a lot] - a few things going on recently, so it felt really nice," he told Sky Sports. "We've made a U-turn and done really well. The manager is brilliant and we're all behind him. It was a tough game in midweek but as the manager said, this group is full of fighters. "Four managers has not been easy but we've all stuck together and fought for each other." Manager Vitor Pereira praised the midfielder's courage after his fourth goal of the season following an emotional week. "It's difficult for me and I believe everybody can understand what he's feeling inside," he said. "But in the end I believe that he honours his mother, going on the pitch and running until the last breath. "I think he wants a lot to score a goal, and he believes until the end. He's a very, very talented player but is a strong, strong character. If not, it's not possible." Anderson has become an England regular this season, earning seven caps, and is certain to go to the World Cup as one of Thomas Tuchel's trusted players. Manchester United and Manchester City have him high on their wanted list this summer and Forest will struggle to keep him with no European football next season. …