Steve Bruce was in attendance last night, as the Newcastle United U23s slipped to defeat against Stoke City.
The 60-year-old was there to cast his eye over the Toon youngsters (via Chronicle), who let slip a lead to lose 3-2 against the Potters.
Elliot Anderson opened the scoring from the penalty spot.
But D’Margio Wright-Phillips, Thomas Lance Sparrow and Tyrese Campbell all scored for Stoke.
Adam Wilson pulled one back for Newcastle, but Stoke held out for the victory.
Despite the defeat, Anderson getting on the scoresheet was a big positive of the night.
The 18-year-old talent completed 90 minutes for the first time this season, following a recent hip injury.
He didn’t play for four months as a result of the issue.
Last night his goal came via the penalty spot, but that will surely give him great confidence moving forwards.
His overall performance in the game was good, and it is a boost that it came in front of Bruce.
Bruce needs to get Anderson back involved as soon he can
Perhaps he’ll need a couple more games to truly get back up to speed.
But Anderson needs to be back involved with the first-team.
Newcastle, of course, haven’t won a game yet this season, and something needs to change.
The talented Anderson was knocking on the door last season after making his debut against Arsenal in the FA Cup.
But the opportunities didn’t go his way as Bruce sought to call on more experienced players.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
