Newcastle United make transfer decision after unwanted development

Elliot Anderson is set to stay at Newcastle United this summer following the news of Jonjo Shelvey’s three-month injury lay-off.

Magpies head coach Eddie Howe admitted on Friday morning the 19-year-old “as it stands, will not be going anywhere”.

However, in the weeks previous, Howe did not rule out a loan exit in the final days of the summer transfer window.

But after United received news of Shelvey’s 12 weeks absence, the likelihood of Anderson remaining on Tyneside has increased significantly.

The Scotland under-21s international will compete with Bruno Guimares, Joelinton, Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff for a place in Howe’s third-man midfield.

The only way that could change is if Newcastle sign a midfielder before the deadline. The focus, however, is on strengthening the attacking positions.

Elliot Anderson ‘like a new signing’

Anderson was named on the bench for Newcastle’s opening day Premier League win over Nottingham Forest after impressing in pre-season.

He featured heavily in friendlies against Gatehead, 1860 Munich, Mainz 05, Benfica and Atalanta after returning from his promotion-winning loan spell at Bristol Rovers.

“He’s come into the group almost like a new signing for us,” Howe said. “I’ve seen a big elevation in his own performance.

“Physically, he’s been very good in pre-season, he’s come back very fit.

“Tactically, he’s fitted into our system. He’s a very useful player for us. We really like him. He’s a great character as well.

“He’s quite quiet within the group but has a steady determination to do well for him and the team. We like him a lot.”

Jonjo Shelvey blow

A number of EFL clubs have enquired about Anderson’s availability but are set to be left disappointed, especially now Shelvey is sidelined with a hamstring injury.

The former England international underwent surgery in London over the weekend and isn’t expected to return until after the World Cup break.

It’s a huge blow for the 30-year-old, who worked hard with a personal trainer during the off-season to enhance his physical appearance.

Shelvey looked fit and sharp in pre-season before injuring his hamstring during the 3-2 Eusebio Cup loss to Benfica late last month.