“‘Didn’t See It Coming’: £35m Star Shocked by Newcastle United Exit”

Newcastle United fans and staff found it difficult to accept Elliot Anderson’s departure.

The young midfielder barely had the chance to showcase his potential before leaving due to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules.

Manager Eddie Howe admitted that Newcastle were “reluctant” to sell Anderson but ultimately had to acknowledge it as a consequence of their significant spending in previous seasons.

A product of Newcastle’s academy, Anderson followed in the footsteps of Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley, making first-team appearances for the Magpies. Before his departure, he featured in 55 matches for the club.

The only positive aspect of his exit was the record-breaking £35 million transfer fee, making him Newcastle’s most expensive sale—a testament to how highly he was regarded by other teams.

Now at Nottingham Forest, Anderson is flourishing with regular game time.

Forest currently sits third in the Premier League, six points ahead of Newcastle, and Anderson has played a crucial role in their success.

The 22-year-old has contributed one goal and five assists this season, with his first Premier League goal coming in January.

Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon was among those who congratulated him on the milestone.

In a recent interview with BBC Sport, Anderson opened up about the emotional toll of leaving his boyhood club.

“It was very sad. You never know what’s going to happen when you join a club.

At the time, I had no idea things would unfold this way, so it was tough to take,” he admitted.

“I was really settled at Newcastle and didn’t see it coming. But that’s football—you have to be ready for any challenge.

It wasn’t meant to be there, but I’ve found myself at a great club now, and I’m really enjoying it.”

Anderson will have the opportunity to face his former team when Nottingham Forest visits St James’ Park on February 23.

A Familiar Face at Forest

Although leaving Newcastle was an emotional experience for Anderson, he found a familiar face at his new club.

Former Magpie Chris Wood, who joined Nottingham Forest in 2023, was there to welcome him.

Like Anderson, Wood has seized his opportunity at Forest.

The striker expressed gratitude to Eddie Howe for allowing him to leave Newcastle and pursue regular Premier League football.

However, that decision proved costly for the Magpies when Wood scored a hat-trick against them in December 2023.

In a recent interview, Wood praised Anderson’s ability and predicted he would succeed away from Newcastle.

He also highlighted the strong connection Anderson has already built with the Forest supporters.

As Anderson continues to develop at his new club, Newcastle fans may look back with regret at the decision to sell him.