Rovers are keen to sign star Anderson on loan
BRISTOL Rovers have already thrown their hat into the ring to sign Elliot Anderson on loan from Newcastle United next season.
The 19-year-old, pictured, has already written his name into footballing folklore at Rovers after scoring the crucial final goal of their 7-0 win over Scunthorpe United.
Anderson has a brilliant rapport with former Newcastle star Joey Barton and will be assured gametime in League One next season if Rovers are given the green light.
Anderson has a clutch of Championship clubs queuing up to sign him in the summer window and there is a chance Toon boss Eddie Howe will want to take a closer look at him in pre-season.
Rovers will make the case to involve Anderson at the start of their pre-season preparations and get him ready for the 46-game programme ahead of them in the third flight. The package Rovers are putting together would be one Academy boss Steve Harper would consider carefully.
Too often, United have watched talented youngsters head to clubs and end up sidelined - Matty Bondswell at Shrewsbury the latest example.
Barton’s relationship with Harper is good but the player will look at all his options during his holiday.