Eddie Howe has confirmed that Elliot Anderson will be handed the chance to impress over pre-season, suggesting he could yet be part of his Premier League plans for 2022/23.
The 19-year-old has just completed a stunning loan spell at Bristol Rovers, ending his half-season stint with seven goals, six assists, several man of the match awards and the all important strike that sealed promotion to League One for Joey Barton’s side.
Asked about his return to Tyneside at today’s press conference, Howe has revealed that he will be involved in our pre-season tour – which looks set to be in the USA at present – and assessed after that.
Another loan seems possible, but the NUFC boss admits he could be kept and used next season if Anderson impresses over the summer.
Here’s everything Howe had to say about the exciting Toon talent:
“We’re very pleased for him.
“He was desperate to go and play, and have that experience on loan.
“I’ve said many times, I think, that we didn’t, initially, want to pitch him into League Two, because we felt that he was better than that level, but due to one reason or another that was the level he ended up at.
“He’s excelled.
“It’s difficult, as a young player, to go out and really make a difference, but he’s done that and made an incredible difference, I think, to Bristol Rovers.
“It was a dramatic final day, and credit to Joey, his team and Elliot.
“What an experience for him, and one he’ll always remember very fondly, hopefully at the end of a very successful career.
“We’ll certainly bring him back for pre-season.
“I’ll have a close look at him. He’ll be involved in pre-season games.
“We’ll make a decision then on whether he needs another loan, or whether he’s going to stay with us.”
