Steve Bruce drops Newcastle United selection hint when asked about Elliot Anderson

Anderson, a highly-rated 18-year-old, has made two substitute’s appearances for the relegation-threatened club so far this season.

And the midfielder is an option for Bruce at No.10 with Miguel Almiron sidelined until next month with a knee injury.

While Bruce handed Anderson – who signed a long-term deal at the club earlier this season after impressing in first-team training – his debut in January, United’s head coach is not minded to hand him a start. Instead, Bruce will continue to lean on the more experienced players in his squad.

“If I had to put him in, then I’d put him in, but he’s young and inexperienced,” said Bruce, who has not fielded 20-year-old midfielder Matty Longstaff since mid-January.

“I think what I need at the moment, in particular, is all the experience that I can have to handle the situation we have. We’ve got a very good young player on our hands. Let’s not forget he’s only 18, 19.

"The same goes for Matty Longstaff, too. They’re both young in their development. It’s important that they have a few 90 minutes under their belt, and play for the Under-23s.

"But, look, he’s a very, very good young player, the kid. We know what he is, but, at the moment, I think I need to draw on all the experienced ones that I can who can handle the situation we’re in.”

Anderson played for the club’s Under-23s in Monday’s 1-1 draw against Sunderland.

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