2025 may have been Elliot Anderson’s breakout year but it’s been a long time coming.The Nottingham Forest midfielder sat down with Sky Sports’ Anton Toloui to discuss his journey from Wallsend Boys Club to breaking into England’s starting eleven.
In the shadow of Shearer & CarrickIt all began for Anderson at Wallsend Boys Club, just a few miles up the road from St James’ Park.
Anderson and his brothers would kick about in the bright yellow kit, just as England players Alan Shearer, Peter Beardsley and Michael Carrick did in their youth.”It’s a really big part of my career,” Anderson recalls. “It’s where I found my love for the game. I’ve had some great memories playing for them.
“There have been some top players who have come through here. I’ve seen a few England players have come through here and then there was a bit of a break so I’ve hopefully done them proud.”
Newcastle United has been a huge part of the Anderson family’s life for generations. His grandfather Geoff Allen was a former Magpies player, making his debut at just 17 and playing a part in Newcastle’s Fairs Cup success in 1969.
Allen, an exciting left-winger, saw his career end prematurely through injury. He was 23 when he retired but went on to coach at the club. Anderson admits Allen’s career and wisdom have played a huge part in his journey.”He came on the scene early, played a few games and lit the scene up,” he says. “Unfortunately, he got injured early doors, which is a huge shame. I’m really proud of what he’s done and what he went on to do.”Newcastle: the early years
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Anderson came through the ranks at St James’ Park
Anderson wasn’t even at secondary school when he joined Newcastle’s academy. “It was amazing,” he remembers. “Getting through the youth groups, getting a new contract each time and then getting closer to your dream.”Then I got my debut at Arsenal, it was the biggest day of my life.”An 18-year-old Anderson came off the bench at The Emirates during an FA Cup third-round defeat. Nine days later, he’d make his Premier League debut at the same ground against the same opponent.”It was a huge moment for me and huge achievement for my family. It’s something I’m so proud of. For a split second you think “wow, this is incredible” but if you pause for too long you’ll get caught up in it.”Once you get the feeling you don’t want to lose it, you get addicted to putting the…
2025-12-29 08:00:00
