‘We’ve seen a real growth’: Howe says one Newcastle talent has really wowed him and his coaches

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Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has praised Elliot Anderson for his recent efforts in training and on the pitch.

The 19-year-old Magpies midfielder enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at Bristol Rovers last season.

Anderson was instrumental in helping the Gas earn automatic promotion on the final day of the League Two campaign.

Against all odds, Rovers leapfrogged Northampton into third place on goal difference with a 7-0 win at Scunthorpe.

Anderson has travelled with Newcastle on their pre-season training camp in Austria.

He played for an hour in the 3-0 friendly over 1860 Munich and was one of the Magpies’ best first-half players.

Howe spoke about Anderson after the game and lauded the youngster’s development and attitude.

“He’s come back with a real enthusiasm and desire to do well, and show us how much he’s progressed since his loan spell,” the Daily Mail quotes the Newcastle boss as saying.

“I thought he was probably the biggest bright spark we had during that first half, which was a difficult one for us. I’ve been really impressed by him.

“He’s quite quiet within the group, but is a very steely, determined lad who wants to do well. We really like him.”

“The biggest development”

Anderson was noticeably taller and bulkier since last playing for Newcastle.

Howe added: “I think that’s probably been the biggest development.

“He looks like he has the ability now to go box to box, to compete not just in possession, but out of possession with duels.

“I thought he pressed well during the first half. I think we’ve seen a real growth in his endurance levels.”

It remains to be seen whether Anderson goes out on loan again next season.

According to Chronicle Live, Rovers want Anderson back.

Meanwhile, the likes of Luton, West Brom and Sheffield Wednesday want to sign the playmaker on a season-long deal.