Eddie Howe sees a ‘big postive’ in Newcastle United youngster

Eddie Howe has described Elliot Anderson’s impressive cameo in Newcastle United’s goalless draw with Crystal Palace as ‘a big positive’.

The Magpies youngster was introduced into the action with 20 minutes remaining when he replaced Ryan Fraser on the left-hand side of Howe’s front three.

Despite his relatively short time on the pitch, Anderson made an impressive impact and provided the St James Park faithful with several exciting moments.

A constant threat out wide and moving inside, the Scotland Under-21 international give a further hint of the undoubted potential that has persuaded Howe to retain his services, despite interest from several EFL clubs.

The Magpies are believed to have rejected a number of offers to take Anderson on season-long loans prior to last week’s transfer deadline.

That means Anderson will get further opportunities to show the United manager what he can offer alongside his senior stars - and Howe has enjoyed what he has seen so far.

“I thought he was very bright,” explained the Magpies boss after Saturday’s draw with Patrick Vieira’s side.

“We brought him on the left as I thought our midfield three were doing well at that moment in the game, I didn’t want to disrupt their rhythm. Sometimes you make a change to an area that can have a negative effect so I put him wide.

“It’s an area he can play very well in. Certainly his chopping and turning in the box was very impressive. He put a couple of lovely balls in with his left foot that we probably should have done better with.

“Very pleased with Elliot. Again, a home game, he comes on with pressure on him. He wants the ball in every moment and that’s a big positive to take.”

Anderson will hope to make his seventh senior appearance for the Magpies when they visit West Ham United on Sunday afternoon.