Elliot Anderson is playing the World Cup of his life, but the England midfielder is doing it with a broken heart. His mother, Helen, died in April after a brief illness, leaving the Anderson family in mourning just as the 23-year-old Manchester City star established himself as the engine of England’s midfield under Thomas Tuchel.
Anderson’s brother, Wil, has been in the United States alongside his fiancée, Love Island star Uma Jammeh, cheering on the Three Lions to the semi-finals. Wil, who appeared on the 2024 series of Love Island, struck up an immediate romance with model Jammeh before being dumped from the villa on day 37. The couple survived the reality TV drama, navigated the outside world, and are now happily engaged. Wil announced the news on Instagram with the caption: “I liked it, so I put a ring on it,” alongside a snap of Jammeh in a green outfit.
“England star Elliot Anderson's mother Helen dies after brief illness as brother Wil and Love Island fiancée cheer on Three Lions.”
Wil also pursues a boxing career under Misfits promotions. He suffered defeat on his debut against Jordan Banjo but bounced back with a knockout win over Jake Cornish in March.
Following their mother’s passing, Wil paid tribute on Instagram. “Words can’t describe this feeling. You didn’t deserve this. All I ever wanted was to make you proud,” he wrote. “You gave everything for our family and we were just ready to return the favour. You fought the toughest fight of them all and not once did it show, bowing out with grace surrounded by your boys. Keep watching me Mum I have more to show you. Everything is for you. You will live with me forever Mum, I love you.”
Jammeh responded: “Rest in peace queen Helen, she is forever next to you holding your hand along the way. I love you so much.”
Elliot, a record-breaking signing for Manchester City, made his senior England debut last September and has been a revelation this summer. England now face Argentina in the World Cup semi-final — the first meeting between the sides in 21 years. If the Three Lions can end 60 years of hurt, planning is already under way for a victory parade in London.