Elliot Anderson was a late addition to the Newcastle United starting lineup on Monday, and now the youngster is set to retain his place in the side against Chelsea.
The 20-year-old was always expected to feature in the Toon XI to face Leicester following Joe Willock’s injury, so there was major shock at 7pm when the team was announced and Sean Longstaff was suddenly back from an ankle problem.
It was a shame for Anderson, but suddenly an opportunity emerged in the warmup. As the players were preparing for the game, Joelinton could be seen in some discomfort. He then trudged down the tunnel earlier than his teammates.
When the players came out for kickoff, it was clear there had been a change and that Anderson had replaced Joelinton.
The local lad performed well, and now he is set to receive back-to-back Premier League starts for the first time in his career.
Elliot Anderson expected to start for Newcastle against Chelsea
According to the Shields Gazette, Anderson is expected to retain his place in the side for the final game of the season on Sunday. Newcastle head to the capital to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
That decision would suggest that Joelinton is not going to be fit, or that Bruno Guimaraes is going to be rested. He admitted after the Leicester game that he has been suffering with a lot injuries.
Regardless, Anderson deserves this opportunity. He has made 21 Premier League appearances for the Magpies this season, but has been used sparingly by Eddie Howe. He has only started two times in the league so far, while he has played less than 10 minutes in 13 of his substitute appearances.
But the youngster is an ‘unbelievable‘ talent, and has proven that he can handle himself in the top flight. He certainly did not look out of place against Leicester, and hopefully he won’t against Chelsea.
It will be a big game for Anderson – a final chance to show Howe what he is capable of ahead of the summer transfer window. With new players expected to arrive, there is always a chance that he could be loaned out to gain more experience. However, he will no doubt be keen to stick around.
