Bristol Rovers' promotion-winning hero Elliot Anderson has signed a new "long-term" contract after a meteoric rise since the turn of the year.
Anderson's star has risen after his huge contribution to Rovers' success last season, joining on deadline day in January and having a transformative effect on the team. The playmaker's seven goals and six assists in 20 starts for the Gas powered the surge from mid-table to the top three in the second half of the season.
And it was his header against Scunthorpe United on the final day that clinched promotion for Joey Barton's side, with the Scotland under-21 international also providing two assists in that historic 7-0 win.
Last week, Barton described him as the "Lionel Messi of League Two" and now, the 19-year-old is one of the brightest young prospects in the Premier League, making four first-team appearances for Eddie Howe's side including three impressive cameos in the top flight, and he has been rewarded with a new deal that commits his future to St James' Park.
"I'm really happy," Anderson told Newcastle's club website. "I love playing for Newcastle United, and committing my future to the club is something I've really wanted to do.
"It was my aim coming back into pre-season to work hard and earn the opportunity to stick around. I have really enjoyed being with the first team group, so hopefully I can keep improving and contribute to the team."
For Gasheads, Anderson's stint in BS7 was brief but a privilege to observe, such was his superiority and flair on the pitch, delivering talismanic contributions with rare style.
Howe has spoken glowingly of Anderson since he returned to his parent club for pre-season this summer. The initial plan was for the teenager to be loaned out again, but he forced his way into his manager's plans and it is clear to see the impression the Whitley Bay-born midfielder has made.
"We are all delighted with Elliot's development," Howe said. "He is a natural talent, but he also has an excellent work ethic and always wants to learn.
"I know our supporters will be especially pleased to see another local boy coming through from the Academy into the first team. Elliot has earned that chance, and he has set a great example to our young players.
"He is just at the start of his journey at this level but he has a very exciting future ahead and we are delighted that his journey will continue here."
Sporting director Dan Ashworth added: "Our strategy is not just about who we can buy, it is also about who we have and how we nurture and develop our best young talent.
"It's crucial for the club and our academy to provide a pathway for our young players and a belief that if they are good enough, they will get an opportunity to play.
"Steve Harper with the Academy and Eddie Howe and his staff have been brilliant with Elliot. They have given him an opportunity and some great coaching and development to enable him to get to this level.
"Elliot has shown he has the attributes to have a successful career at this level and we hope he will be here for a long time to come."
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