Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe pleased with how Elliot Anderson is getting on at Bristol Rovers

Bristol Rovers midfielder Elliot Anderson should be playing in the Championship right now, believes Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe.

The 19-year-old is six games into his loan at the Gas but has already got two assists and a goal for his new club after signing on deadline day, having come as a recommendation from Shola Ameobi.

Anderson was an eleventh hour addition after Joey Barton had sought a midfield option, despite not being his preferred option initially after a few setbacks in the transfer market.

The midfielder has already shown that he is a class above in the division and his parent club manager is aware of the progress he has made in his first spell away from St James Park.

“We’re really pleased with Elliot,” said Howe to the Shields Gazette in his pre-match presser ahead of their trip to Brentford.

“I think he needed to go out and play, and get that feeling of regular football.”

The 44-year-old revealed that he was disappointed that Anderson had to settle for playing in English football’s fourth tier.

There was a year-long interest from Luton Town though they passed on the opportunity as they wanted a player who could slot in straight away in the squad and would perhaps look at a permanent deal.

Despite playing at a level that he believes his player is higher at, Howe has shown his gratitude to Rovers in how Anderson has been treated by Joey Barton and his side so far.

He said: "We were slightly disappointed that it was in League Two, because I feel Elliot’s ready, in my opinion, for the Championship.

“I think he’s a very talented lad, and it’s no surprise that he’s gone to Bristol and done so well.

“I’m very thankful for their care and the opportunity they’ve given him, because, regardless of level, I think you need to feel that confidence that will be going through him at the moment.”

Kevin Bond a member of Joey Barton’s coaching staff as the first-team coach, once managed Eddie Howe during a two-year stint as manager of AFC Bournemouth, where Howe played a majority of during his playing career.

Howe has been in regular conversation with his former manager on the progress of Anderson, with Bond providing positive feedback to the Toon boss in their discussions.

"I think he’s made a big impact there. I know Kevin Bond well, and I’m really pleased he’s had such a positive impact on their season.”