Nottingham Forest’s acquisition of Elliot Anderson was one of the signings of the season, but Newcastle United fans saw it a different way back in 2024.
Anderson has been impressing for the England U21s this summer after a stellar debut season at the City Ground, earning and holding down his spot in Nuno Espírito Santo’s midfield pair.
It’s been more of a case of finding a partner for Anderson rather than finding a role for the Englishman, who has caught the eye of the senior England squad, as Thomas Tuchel predicted a role for Anderson soon.
Such exponential growth makes it hard to remember that Anderson wasn’t necessarily expected to hit the ground running this well, if the reaction of Newcastle fans to the deal at the time is to be believed.
How Newcastle United fans reacted to selling Elliot Anderson
Newcastle fans want Anderson back after seeing how much he has improved in just a year, but they did see the positives of the sale back in June 2024 when their side announced his departure.
One fan said: “It’s a mad fee. I also never felt he really had a natural position.” Another added: “Sad to see him go but for 35m that is a great bit of business.”
Another Newcastle fan said: “I’ll drive him there for that price,” while one added: We have played a blinder here, does he want a lift?!”
One more said: “That is a ridiculous fee for Anderson,” with another saying: “No offence to Anderson but that’s an outrageous fee.”
There’s no denying that Anderson has proven any doubters over the fee wrong during the Premier League season, but people are beginning to take more notice thanks to his displays for England.
Elliot Anderson’s England U21 performances have attracted attention
Harvey Elliott has been scoring the goals for Lee Carsley’s side, but Anderson has received his fair share of credit for his important role, too. Ahead of the final, he is averaging:
- 1.85 chances created per 90
- 91% pass accuracy
- 5.82 successful duels per 90
This emphasises the complete midfield talent that he is, being able to excel in all areas of the pitch to the point that England teammates such as Alex Scott have praised Anderson’s impact.
Being a vital player for both club and country is no mean feat and if Anderson can get his hands on the U21 Euros trophy, it will only help him mature into an even more important player for Forest.
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