Eddie Howe admits Newcastle United were disappointed not to secure a loan move higher up the EFL pyramid for Elliot Anderson, but the Toon manager is pleased with his progress at Bristol Rovers.
The Magpies' frustration has been to League Two Rovers' gain, with the playmaker making a fine start to life in the blue and white quarters. The 19-year-old has a goal and two assists to his name in seven appearances since a deadline day loan move to BS7, and he has come close to adding to both tallies with several eye-catching performances for Joey Barton's side.
Anderson was linked with a move to Championship side Luton Town, and Hatters boss Nathan Jones later confirmed he had been mulling over signing the Geordie in the January transfer window, but decided he was not quite ready for second-tier football.
With moves for Callum Camps and Liam Sercombe falling short on deadline day, Barton's contacts from his playing days at St James' Park came in handy in securing a loan deal for Anderson until the end of the season. The Rovers manager has since said he believes Rovers have got lucky, with the Newcastle prospect fitting in seamlessly at the club with a talent level superior to the level that has injected momentum to Rovers' promotion pursuit.
Howe, too, is pleased with Anderson's progress on his first loan move, albeit he believes the youngster is ready to be tested at a higher level.
“We’re really pleased with Elliot,” Howe told The Shields Gazette. “I think he needed to go out and play, and get that feeling of regular football.
"We were slightly disappointed that it was in League Two, because I feel Elliot’s ready, in my opinion, for the Championship.
“I think he’s a very talented lad, and it’s no surprise that he’s gone to Bristol and done so well. I’m very thankful for their care and the opportunity they’ve given him, because, regardless of level, I think you need to feel that confidence that will be going through him at the moment.
"I think he’s made a big impact there. I know (Rovers' first-team coach) Kevin Bond well, and I’m really pleased he’s had such a positive impact on their season.”
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