Ex-Newcastle star Elliot Anderson spotted at Dabbawal, Jesmond

The popular Indian street food restaurant in Jesmond shared a photo on Facebook on April 4 with the caption: “Amazing to have the ‘Geordie Maradona’ himself, Elliot Anderson, in Dabbawal Jesmond last night.

“We’re dreaming of a permanent return home… make it happen.”

Dabbawal has built a reputation as a celebrity and footballer hotspot in Jesmond, with staff saying it offers “a lot of nooks and crannies” where players can enjoy some privacy.

The restaurant has previously posted about visits from Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali and TV presenter Declan Donnelly.

Newcastle fans call for Elliot Anderson return

The post quickly caught the attention of supporters, with several sharing their hopes that the Whitley Bay-born player could one day return to St James’ Park.

Anderson, affectionately dubbed the “Geordie Maradona” by fans for his creative flair and attacking instincts, came through Newcastle’s academy before making his Premier League debut in 2022, but he was sold in 2024 amid a scramble to comply with financial regulations.

Nottingham Forest’s ex-Newcastle midfielder Elliot Anderson (Image: Mike Egerton)

Paul Wilson wrote, “It would be fantastic to see you back home in black and white again,” while Jay Scott added: “If Tonali leaves we need to spend whatever it takes to bring him home.”

Another fan, David Wright, summed up the affection many on Tyneside still hold for the 21-year-old, saying simply: “He’s one of our own.”

Whether Anderson is set for a return remains to be seen, but his appearance in Jesmond has reignited fond memories

On June 30, 2024, Newcastle sold Anderson ahead of the financial deadline for Profit and Sustainability rules. Academy prospects count as ‘pure profit’ on the balance sheet.

Anderson did not want to leave his boyhood club, having graduated through Newcastle’s academy, but agreed to move to Nottingham Forest, where he has since earned a place in the England squad.