His superb performance against Maritimo shows he is has what it takes, and at last he looks good enough for Newcastle United.
Elliot is likely to return to the bench on Sunday against Norwich City in place of Steve Harper but, once again we seem to have an embarrassment of riches in the goalkeepeing department.
Fraser Forster moved to Celtic, after being tipped for a great future, and many Toon fans were surprised he was allowed to leave and be replaced by a new keeper.
But Alan Pardew was never happy with Forster's handling and judgement, and he always felt we should have someone better than simply a 6ft 7" giant.
Elliot's chance came in Madeira last night and he pulled off save after save to deny the Portuguese League side.
Elliot had not been seen in action for almost 12 months since the 4-3 victory over Nottingham Forest in last term’s League Cup.
Rob Elliot: “I want to make everyone aware I am a good goalkeeper – I have ambitions.
“The gaffer put his faith in me and I was really pleased.
“The lads in front of me were brilliant. It was just good to play a game – I had only played the one for the club.
“I had not played for a year. I have been training hard and waiting for my chance.
“I had just signed when I played at Forest.
“Everything was a bit crazy, but I have had a year of hard training.
“Maritimo do not lose many at home – their record is fantastic.
“The pitch is questionable and they are used to playing on it.
“It took us 20 minutes to get used to it. It was hot out there too.
“We were pleased with the point and we could have maybe nicked it.
“I made a good early save and that helped settle the nerves.
“It was my first game in Europe, and I was pleased to keep a clean sheet.
"There were two things I could have done better, but overall I was very pleased with my performance.”
Source: FOOTYMAD
