ELL FIRE

Ex-Toon star Anderson eager to show his worth at Forest after shock move from boyhood club

- NEIL MOXLEY

ELLIOT ANDERSON would like nothing better than to prove Eddie Howe right.

When the Newcastle boss gave his final debrief to one of the Toon's academy stars, the 21-year-old took it to heart.

"I think the gaffer rated me," said Anderson, "I've spoken to him a few times since leaving, but what gave me a real boost was when he said, 'Go and show them all how good you are'.

"I'm hoping to live up to that at Forest."

That might well be to the benefit of the two-time former European champions as the circumstances that have surrounded the Tynesiders cashing in one of their prized assets remain cloudy.

Clearly, staying within the financial rules featured heavily.

Or else why choose to sell a home-grown academy graduate who was good enough to feature heavily last season.

Anderson added: "To be honest, I was a bit shocked.