'Rather special' - Liam Kennedy enthuses over Newcastle teen who caught the eye at Darsley Park

Liam Kennedy has given his instant reaction after Newcastle United youngster Elliot Anderson fired Bristol Rovers to promotion to League One on Saturday. 

Needing to better the result of third-placed Northampton Town or win by a seemingly unlikely five goals more than their rivals, Joey Barton’s side pulled off a miracle second-half display against Scunthorpe.

With five minutes remaining, the Gas were chasing the crucial seventh goal when Anderson headed home to spark wild celebrations at the Memorial Ground, their 7-0 victory enabling them to nudge ahead of the Cobblers, who won 3-1 at Barrow, by virtue of goals scored in the table.

Having joined on January’s transfer deadline day on a six-month loan deal, the young winger has enjoyed a stellar spell, and one invested onlooker believes than an exciting future awaits…

Taking to Twitter, Shields Gazette journalist Kennedy hailed the 19-year-old in response to a post congratulating the starlet from Newcastle’s official channel.

The reporter succinctly said of Anderson: “He’s rather special… #NUFC”

The 19-year-old is expected to return to St James’ Park ahead of the 2022/23 season following promotion without the need for play-offs.

Since joining the Pirates in mid-season, Anderson has scored eight times and provided five assists whilst gaining some invaluable first-team match experience in the process.

Prior to leaving the northeast, the Scotland youth international had lit up Premier League 2 with five goals in just seven appearances, impressing Newcastle assistant coach Jason Tindall, who described Anderson as a ‘bright talent’ based on what he had witnessed at Darsley Park.

Named the League Two Player of the Month for April, the attacking midfielder has earned a