‘Champing at the bit’: Howe says he could pick Newcastle United man for first time this season tomorrow

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Eddie Howe has said that he could pick young Newcastle United midfielder Elliot Anderson for the first time this season.

Chronicle Live reporter Aaron Stokes relayed Howe’s comments ahead of tomorrow’s Carabao Cup tie against Tranmere Rovers, saying: “Elliot (Anderson) is chomping at the bit to be involved. He’s trained very well.

“He hasn’t appeared yet in the Premier League but his performances in training haven’t dipped so he’s in a good place.”

Anderson has already made two first-team appearances at Newcastle in his career.

He came off the bench against Arsenal for his debut in the FA Cup, before making a brief Premier League cameo against the same opposition nine days later back in January 2021.

He grabbed the attention of Newcastle fans last season while on loan at Bristol Rovers.

The attacking midfielder joined The Gas for the second-half of last season, and helped them win promotion to England’s third tier.

Anderson scored eight goals and registered five assists in 21 appearances, a fantastic return for his first loan spell away from St. James’ Park.

Howe could pick Anderson for first time this season

Anderson has been on the bench for all of Newcastle’s Premier League matches this season, but has yet to be brought on.

A number of clubs wanted the Scotland under-21 midfielder on loan this summer, but Howe has said he’s currently in his plans.

Anderson wants to force his way into Eddie Howe’s first team plans, and an appearance in the Carabao Cup is his best opportunity right now to give Howe a selection headache.

Newcastle have been looking to strengthen in midfield, with James Maddison heavily linked with a move to St. James’ Park.

If Howe was to bring another player in that could further limit Anderson’s opportunities, the youngster would need to head out on loan.

Newcastle have had a strong start to the season, remaining unbeaten after their first three games.

If this good form continues, Anderson could be afforded the occasional cameo, but Howe is unlikely to want to change a winning side.