Fresh injury blow for Newcastle United as Eddie Howe reveals ‘minor niggle’

Eddie Howe has revealed why Elliot Anderson missed Newcastle United’s 1-1 draw with AFC Bournemouth.

The 19-year-old star had been pushing for a first Premier League start after impressive cameos against Wolverhampton, Liverpool and Crystal Palace.

So when the attacking midfielder was absent from the teamsheet against the Cherries, supporters were quick to question his whereabouts.

Howe was asked about Anderson after the game and the Magpies head coach expects him to return for the trip to Fulham after a minor injury.

“Very minor niggle,” Howe said, “He’ll be fit and fine for the next game.”

Howe decided to keep the Scotland under-21s international as part of his first team plans rather than loan him out again following a spell at Bristol Rovers.

Anderson attracted interest from a number of Football League clubs but hasn’t at all looked out place in a Premier League side.

“He’s going to be integral to our plans,” Howe said last month. “You can see that from the last two games when he’s come off the bench and contributed.

“He’ll be desperate for that first start, he’s pushing. I’ve been delighted with the progress he’s made.”

United might have benefitted from an Anderson introduced after struggling to break down the Bournemouth defence.

Philip Billing put the visitors in front before Alexander Isak rescued a point from the penalty spot after Jefferson Lerma handled Kieran Trippier’s cross.