Callum Anderson played his 350th game for the club last week, only the tenth player ever to reach this landmark, and before Saturday’s game against Ashington, he was presented with a trophy by director Martin Kelly in recognition of this tremendous achievement.
A central defender who can also play in the centre of midfield, he picked up winners medals in the 2010 and 2011 FA Vase Finals at Wembley, having been a squad member the previous season. He scored his first goal for the club in the 2013/14 League Cup Final at St James’ Park and has since score four more.
A great favourite with the fans, he is hugely respected by Bay managers who have worked with him over the years. Current boss Nathan Haslam is a great admirer. “Callum is more than key, he’s just so important for us. Callum on form, which he’s been pretty much every time he’s played for us since I’ve been here, just shows how important he is. When I first came to the club I thought he was a great centre half and he is, he’s a very good centre half, but he’s found his tune in centre midfield and for me what he does, he’s the best in the league by an absolute country mile. He’s really, really important for us.”
Speaking to The Chronicle’s non league reporter Mark Carruthers, former Bay manager Ian Chandler recalled his first meeting with Callum. “I think he was around 17 (playing for the reserves) when I noticed him and invited him to pre-season training. Callum stood out from day one when he turned up for the very first pre-season session wearing blue Bermuda shorts and a vest but then proceeded to beat the bleep test. He was so fit as a youngster it was unreal. Those 350 games haven’t slowed him up at all and his passion is still very evident for all to see.” The current Bishop Auckland manager added, “I wish I had ten of him in my side!”
Here’s hoping Callum remains a part of the Whitley Bay side for many more years to come!
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