Alan Shearer believes leaving Newcastle United was the best thing that could have happened to Elliot Anderson.
Newcastle United fans have bemoaned the decision to sell the midfielder ever since he left St James’ Park in 2024, moving to Nottingham Forest for £35million.
Eddie Howe did not want to sell Anderson, but it was something the club had to do to comply with PSR.
Since arriving at the City Ground, Anderson has been a revelation. He has established himself as a leading Premier League midfielder, and now he is a regular for England too.
His form has made his Newcastle United exit all the more painful, but Alan Shearer insists that the 23-year-old would not be where he is today had he remained on Tyneside.
Alan Shearer delighted for Elliot Anderson after Newcastle United heartache
Speaking on the latest episode of the Rest Is Football podcast, Newcastle United legend Shearer has been reflecting on Anderson’s move from the Magpies to Nottingham Forest.
He is under no illusions that the transfer was a pivotal moment in Anderson’s career, despite Newcastle United not wanting to let their academy star go.
“It was the best thing,” he said.
“Although it was tough for Newcastle and it wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for PSR.
“But it was the best thing that happened to him, to get out and play. He wasn’t going to get in Newcastle’s midfield. You’ve got to give him credit. He wouldn’t be far away now [from getting in Newcastle’s midfield], I agree with that.
“He wouldn’t have been able to do what he has done and is doing at Newcastle. Good for him. I’m delighted for him. He’s gone from being a bit-part player at Newcastle to being one of the main guys at Forest and one of England’s.”
Why Newcastle United want Elliot Anderson back
When he was at Newcastle United, Anderson was seen as just a boy. That always would have been the case, having emerged from the club’s academy.
At Forest, he has become a man. Not only that, but he is a man that Newcastle United would like back at St James’ Park.
Geordie Boot Boys understand that Newcastle want to re-sign Anderson in the future, with the local lad viewed as a dream signing.
On top of that, it has been reported that Anderson would like to return to Newcastle at some point, despite currently being very happy at Nottingham Forest.
Given his development and Newcastle’s current midfield issues, it is easy to understand why Eddie Howe would want to bring Anderson back. He would certainly be able to slot into the Magpies’ starting XI alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.
But another reason why Newcastle would like to bring him back is he is homegrown. That is important when it comes to competing in Europe, as you need so many players from your academy in your squad.
Anderson would contribute towards Newcastle’s homegrown quota, which is something they are failing to fill right now.
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