Eddie Howe confirms Elliot Anderson is available for Newcastle this weekend

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Elliot Anderson missed Newcastle United’s 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, but the midfielder is back in contention to face Aston Villa.

The 19-year-old was unavailable to feature against Antonio Conte’s side, having picked up a knock. However, Eddie Howe has confirmed that he is over the injury issue and can play a part at St James’ Park on Saturday.

Anderson has been an important player for Newcastle this season, making multiple exciting cameos off the bench. The latest came in the 1-0 win over Everton – the Magpies’ last home game.

He played 18 minutes in the victory over the Toffees, which was his sixth Premier League appearance of the season.

And he will hope to feature once again in front of a packed out St James’ Park when Aston Villa arrive on Tyneside.

Eddie Howe provides Elliot Anderson update

Ahead of the game, Toon boss Howe has spoke to the press. He has provided a very positive update on Anderson’s fitness.

“He’s okay,” Howe said.

“He had a minor niggle [before Spurs] and it was nothing serious, so he’s back in the squad for this week.”

An exciting option for Howe

The Magpies are playing very well this season, and will get even better when key players return from injury.

At times, Howe hasn’t had a lot of options on the bench. His squad has been depleted by injuries to the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin and Alexander Isak.

But Anderson has always been a bright spark in reserve. He is the kind of player who wants to make things happen and is willing to take a risk.

His versatility is a great asset too, with the ability to play as a centre midfielder or out wide as part of the front three. That’s why he is an excellent option for Howe, and the manager will be delighted to have him available once again.

It surely won’t be long before Anderson is starting in the Premier League for Newcastle. While it might not happen before the World Cup, it will almost certainly happen this season.

But for now, the youngster will have to settle for cameos as a substitute. But he is making the most of them so far, and will be desperate for another chance to impress against Aston Villa on Saturday.

Howe has confirmed that Anderson will be back in the squad, which means he is very likely to be named on the bench. Fingers crossed he gets an opportunity to come on and further cement his status as a star of Newcastle’s very bright future.