Ex-Bristol Rovers midfielder considering switching allegiance to England after Newcastle breakthrough

The successful Gas loanee has a decision on his hands when it comes to international football
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Former Bristol Rovers midfielder Elliot Anderson is considering switching his international allegiance back to England.

Anderson was called up to the Scotland Under-21’s squad for the latest international break and was due to play alongside Bristol City’s Tommy Conway, but was not part of the squad after pulling out through injury.

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The 19-year-old was born in Whitley Bay in England and is able to play for both teams through his parents, but has so far represented the Scots.

He was capped earlier this summer for Scotland after initially staying during the March break, but may now fancy his chances with England, reports The Telegraph. They say that he is contemplating where his future lies on the international stage with the Three Lions and Scotland potentially in a tug-of-war over him.

Anderson has not yet made a decision it has been said and is happy to play for either but should England show an interest, he would revert back to playing for his country of birth.

Given his breakthrough at Newcastle United this season, he could be in contention for a call-up to Steve Clarke’s senior team, but any appearance for them would tie him to the Tartan Army for the rest of his career.

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Anderson has made four senior appearances under Eddie Howe this season with three coming in the Premier League, having only played League Two football up until May. As a result of his emergence into the Magpies side, he was rewarded with a new long-term deal, though the length of it is unspecified, but it will at least cement his future at St James Park.

Gas first-team manager Joey Barton, who signed him on loan in January on the recommendation of former teammates Shola Ameobi and Steve Harper gave his best wishes to him after earning a new contract.

“He’s a top kid and he’s done that himself through the drive and the determination he’s got to be a footballer,” Barton said on Thursday.

“I texted him yesterday and said ‘Don’t rest’. I don’t know what they have given him, but the numbers are scary in the Premier League, but they will have looked after him.

“The key now is not settling and accepting and patting yourself on the back. The key is now to drive on and get the next one and that being as short aspace of time between contracts as possible.”

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