‘I’m trying’: 20-year-old Newcastle youngster wants Eddie Howe to start him more often

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Newcastle United have spent almost £100million on new signings this summer, but the star of pre-season has been a player who did not cost a penny.

For all the luxury players that Eddie Howe now has at his disposal, it has been Elliot Anderson who has been hogging the headlines.

The academy graduate has been a key player during the Magpies’ friendlies, and has contributed in every game he has featured in.

It started with a goal and an assist against Gateshead. Then he got an assist against Rangers, and followed that up with another goal and another assist against Aston Villa.

He did not feature in the draw with Chelsea, but was back to his best on Friday night versus Brighton in our final game of the Premier League Summer Series.

It was a difficult night where Newcastle did not see a lot of the ball, but Anderson made the most of his opportunities when they came his way. He scored twice in the final 10 minutes to give the Magpies victory, rounding out their USA trip in style.

The 20-year-old’s performances could result in Anderson starting Newcastle’s first Premier League game in less than a fortnight, and now he has delivered a message to Eddie Howe ahead of the new season.

Elliot Anderson ready for ‘huge’ Newcastle season

Anderson has spoke to the Daily Mail about his hopes for the 2023/24 season.

“It is a huge season for me,” he said.

“I’m trying to get on the pitch, trying to keep pushing and have more of an impact than I had last season.

“It could go two ways really. If I don’t perform… I need to perform and cement a place in the squad.”

Eddie Howe can rely on him even more now

We saw flashes of brilliance from Anderson last season, as he started to earn Howe’s trust.

Now the Newcastle boss should fully trust Anderson, as he has been the club’s main man this summer. He appears to be much more confident, and that has allowed him to be much more influential in front of goal.

The youngster strongest quality is his creativity, but it did not result in goals or assists in a Newcastle shirt last season. But he fulfilled his role, and did well when called upon.

But to become a key and regular player this season, he needs to take his pre-season form in front of goal into the Premier League. That is the only way Howe will play him regularly and give him the minutes he craves.

The early signs are good, as Anderson looks to have an even bigger impact in black and white.