In a recent interview (via Shields Gazette), Newcastle United midfielder Elliot Anderson offered an update on his future. Anderson said,
“As far as I know, I think I’m [staying] here.
“Hopefully, it’s just getting started for me. This season is more important than last season, and I really want to kick on and be part of the future here.
“Being around the team and getting appearances here and there boosts your confidence and makes you feel a bit more at home. I feel really part of it now, and hopefully we’ll see that this season.”
Anderson’s Impressive Rise At St. James’ Park Last Season
The 20-year-old managed to establish himself as a useful member of Eddie Howe’s Newcastle squad in the previous campaign. Elliot picked up one assist in 27 appearances for the Magpies last season in various competitions.
The Scottish talent saw most of his game time come off the bench which could be why he averaged 0.5 tackles, 0.5 shots, 0.4 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He distributed the ball accurately in the opponent’s half based on his pass completion rate of 77.8% in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
What Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Do With Regards To Anderson?
Anderson can get stuck in with some crunching tackles to make life tough for the opposition in the middle of the park. The Scottish talent can create the odd chance for others around him when he is playing with confidence on the field and can make a few energetic runs with the ball as well in the opponent’s half.
Anderson mainly operates in the number ten position but has often played as a box-to-box midfielder or as a left-winger if needed. Thus, it makes sense for Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe to keep hold of someone with Anderson’s skillset and potential beyond this summer.
Anderson is still learning and has got the ceiling to become a future starter at St. James’ Park if the Tyneside giants decide to retain his services. His current deal with the Magpies will run out in 2026, so Howe is under no immediate pressure to cash in on him during this summer transfer period.