Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has expressed his delight at Elliot Anderson's career transformation following his summer 2024 departure from St James' Park to Nottingham Forest.
Forced Exit Leads to Unexpected Success
The midfielder's move came as Newcastle were largely forced into selling Anderson to comply with Premier League sustainability rules (PSR) during the 2024 summer transfer window. Despite being an academy graduate who had been with the Magpies since he was eight years old, the club's financial situation made his sale necessary.
Shearer explained that while the circumstances were difficult for Newcastle, the move ultimately benefited Anderson's career dramatically. The 23-year-old was facing intense competition for places in Newcastle's midfield, with established stars like Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton ahead of him in the pecking order.
From Bit-Part Player to England Regular
Since joining Nottingham Forest, Anderson's career has skyrocketed. He has become a regular starter and earned international recognition, breaking into the England squad with his impressive performances at the City Ground.
Speaking on the Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer stated: "It was the best thing. Although it was tough for Newcastle and it wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for PSR. But it was the best thing that happened to him, to get out and play. He wasn't going to get in Newcastle's midfield."
The former England captain emphasized that Anderson wouldn't have developed into the player he has become without regular first-team football, something he couldn't have achieved at Newcastle given their midfield options.
Manchester United Circle as Newcastle Regret Grows
Anderson's outstanding form has now attracted attention from Premier League giants, with Manchester United reportedly plotting a transfer move for the talented midfielder. United's manager Ruben Amorim is said to be targeting central midfield reinforcements, and Anderson fits the profile of player they're seeking.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has openly expressed regret about losing Anderson, describing the circumstances as "very regretful" that a player developed through the academy couldn't be utilized by the club. Howe acknowledged the years of effort invested in Anderson's development by coaching staff at St James' Park.
The Magpies' PSR challenges also led to the sale of another promising talent, Yankuba Minteh joining Brighton, where he has also impressed since his departure from Tyneside.
Shearer concluded with high praise for Anderson's progress: "Good for him. I'm delighted for him. He's gone from being a bit-part player at Newcastle to being one of the main guys at Forest and one of England's." The transformation has been so complete that Shearer acknowledges Anderson would now be close to breaking into Newcastle's midfield, something that seemed unlikely before his departure.
