Two Geordies could line up for England tonight at Wembley in their World Cup qualifier against Andorra (5pm kick-off).
Newcastle United defender Dan Burn is chasing his third international cap, while Whitley Bay-born Elliot Anderson is in line to make his senior debut after earning a first call-up from Thomas Tuchel.
Anderson left St James’ Park last year in a £35m move to Nottingham Forest, a deal Newcastle were forced into to comply with the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Since then, the midfielder has flourished at the City Ground, helping Forest to a 7th-place finish, a Europa League spot, and an FA Cup semi-final. He also shone with England’s under-21s as they successfully defended their European Championship crown.
If the 22-year-old makes his senior bow at Wembley, it will be a proud moment tinged with regret on Tyneside, knowing financial pressures forced the Magpies to part with one of their brightest academy graduates.
Dan Burn, who played alongside Anderson at Newcastle, admitted: “Elliot is a top player, and we were really gutted to lose him. His strength, calmness on the ball, and vision make him stand out. He’s a great lad and I’m delighted for him.”
For his part, Anderson believes the move away was key to his England breakthrough: “It was tough leaving, but I don’t think I’d be in this position if I’d stayed. Sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone and back yourself. It’s a proud moment for me and my family.”
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