Newcastle United had to sell Elliot Anderson on Sunday.
While Newcastle manager Eddie Howe did not want to lose the 21-year-old, the player eventually made a U-turn on his future.
Anderson had initially wanted a new contract at St James’ Park but the knowledge that Nottingham Forest are an established Premier League and the offer of some attractive personal terms has seen the academy graduate complete a move to the City Ground.
Selling Anderson doesn’t appear to have been in the plans but keeping on the right side of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) may have forced Newcastle’s hand.
A breach of those – which do not allow clubs to lose more than £105m over a three-year accounting period – could have seen the club hit with a ten-point deduction.
His departure, then, may be a necessary evil.
Still, that doesn’t make it any easier to swallow and Anthony Gordon responded to his teammate’s departure.
The winger had recently revealed that Anderson was in fact one of his best friends in football.
Anthony Gordon responds to the news that Elliot Anderson is leaving Newcastle
Anderson took to Instagram to post an emotional message to Newcastle supporters.
It read: “It’s been a dream come true to represent my club for 14 years. Pulling that black and white on at St James’ Park is a moment that will never be took away from me.
“I would like to thank everyone involved with the club and all the Geordies that have supported me throughout my journey.
“I will always support the club and wish nothing but the best for everyone involved. As one door closes another one opens. Thank you.”
Gordon then responded: “Gunna miss you lad.”
Elliot Anderson made a huge impact on Eddie Howe
It is a sad end to Anderson’s time at Newcastle.
Howe and his coaching staff, after all, were reportedly blown away by the 21-year-old from the minute they first laid eyes on him.
To have robbed Howe of the chance to develop him further is a real shame, particularly as it may just because of some rules set by the Premier League.
Gordon will now be without one of his best friends in the game just because the club needed to raise money.
That is a huge pity.
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