Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has hinted that Elliot Anderson could replace Bruno Guimaraes in their upcoming game against West Ham United on Saturday.
The Brazilian international was sent off in his side’s latest 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup semi-final, which means he will serve a 3-match domestic ban.
While Newcastle have a number of midfielders at their disposal that could perhaps play in place of Bruno Guimaraes against West Ham, it seems as if Eddie Howe has taken a liking towards the prodigious technician.
Eddie Howe says Elliot Anderson could come in for Bruno Guimaraes vs West Ham
The Magpies academy graduate has garnered plenty of praise at just 20 years of age, with Joey Barton wildly comparing the youngster to Diego Maradona once, as quoted by the Chronicle.
While that remains a conversation for another day, Eddie Howe certainly backs Elliot Anderson to be able to come in for Bruno Guimaraes against West Ham, and in the upcoming games the ex-Lyon lynchpin is set to miss.
“We have Elliot Anderson, who we really like. We want to see how he will develop his Premier League career. We’ll obviously miss Bruno’s [Guimaraes] presence and what he brings”, Eddie Howe told BBC Sport when quizzed about who will replace the side’s main man going forward, especially against West Ham.
Huge opportunity for Elliot Anderson
If Eddie Howe hands Elliot Anderson the vote of confidence to replace Bruno Guimaraes against West Ham, and in subsequent games, the youngster must instantly prove his mettle.
Of course, at such 20 years of age, it would be unfair to expect the talented midfielder to set the world on fire.
However, chances to come in for the side’s best player come rarely for young players like Elliot Anderson, and if he does start against West Ham, it would be ideal for his Newcastle career going forward.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
