Eddie Howe has revealed that Newcastle United will “review” Elliot Anderson’s situation in the summer and admits the talented youngster can play “a lot higher” than League Two.
The 19-year-old has been in fine form since joining Joey Barton’s Bristol Rovers on deadline day in January.
The Whitley Bay native is on loan with the Pirates until the end of the season, but that hasn’t stopped questions being asked of the what the Magpies plan to do with the teenager next season.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of tonight’s Premier League clash at Everton, Howe was asked what his plans were for Anderson moving forward.
Howe said: “I’m so pleased for him. When we came in you could see he is a player with undoubted quality and I heard a lot of good things before working with him – great attitude, stayed behind every day to work on certain aspects of his game.
“He was aware he needed to [go out on loan] and play – we wanted that for him and I’m delighted he’s doing so well.
“It’s not a total surprise to me – I think he can play a lot higher than League Two but he is taking his opportunity, but we will have to review like we will with every player in the summer.”
Anderson, who has been mentioned in the same breath as Argentine legend Diego Maradona, was set to join Championship side Luton Town on loan according to the Athletic. However, the deal never materialised and eventually ended up heading to Bristol instead.
In the 12 games Anderson has played under Barton, the youngster who was named in the Scotland Under-21 squad last week has three goals and two assists to his name.
The attacking midfielder is spearheading the Memorial Stadium side’s promotion charge.
Regardless of where Anderson is playing next season, the most important thing is he’s getting regular first team minutes at senior level.
It’s testament to his talent and attitude that Howe believes the youngster has already outgrown League Two football.
But the Magpies will assess Elliot Anderson’s next move closely to ensure his burgeoning potential is carefully nurtured.
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