Sam Finley believes Newcastle United talent and Bristol Rovers star Elliot Anderson is destined for a career in the Premier League or Championship, but the teenager still has plenty to learn about the professional game.
The 19-year-old has had a transformative effect since joining Joey Barton's Gas on loan on January deadline day, scoring six goals and adding three assists in 19 appearances. The numbers are impressive, but the style with which he has player has made him an instant sensation in BS7.
A number of suitors in the Championship are reportedly queuing up to sign Anderson on loan from Newcastle next season, should the Magpies choose to send him out again, including Nottingham Forest, Millwall and Queens Park Rangers, and that his no surprise to teammate Finley, who believes a fine career at a high level awaits the attacking midfielder.
"(He is) unbelievable," Finley told BBC Radio Bristol. "Top, top player. I think he realises and everyone else realises he is too good for the level he is playing at.
"Still got a lot to learn in the game for me. I’ve had conversations with him and I’m sure the gaffer’s had conversations with him. I won’t go into detail but he knows himself that he’s still got a lot to learn, but he’s some serious player.
"He’s made a massive impact for us, scored some important goals and, for me, he’ll go and have a career in the Premier League or Championship all his life. Top player and a pleasure to play with him."
Anderson's impact at Rovers has been enormous. He has played a part in more than a third of Rovers' goals since his arrival and helped Barton's side average two points per game since February to surge into contention for automatic promotion.
Finley says the squad knew instantly they had a fine talent in their midst.
"From the first day he came in, we thought this is some player," he added. "The way he strikes the ball and passes the ball, you can just tell training with someone day to day. He is a serious talent."
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