Turknaz in Whitley Bay is set to show England's FIFA World Cup semi-final on Wednesday night as it throws its support behind Elliot Anderson, the Nottingham Forest midfielder who hails from Whitley Bay.
The local restaurant shared a message on Facebook on Monday night celebrating Anderson's role in England reaching the FIFA World Cup semi-finals, framing it as a proud moment for the player, his family and the town. The message also said everyone at Turknaz would be cheering the Three Lions on all the way as England push toward the World Cup final.
Anderson's rise has given North Tyneside another name to rally behind on one of football's biggest stages. He is part of an England side that has already drawn wider support across the North East, with Dan Burn also getting backing in Cramlington as the tournament reaches its decisive phase.
Match night in Whitley Bay
For fans in the area, Turknaz is turning Wednesday night into a place to watch the game together. The restaurant said supporters can come and enjoy the atmosphere with great food and great company while getting behind England at the same time.
The setting adds a local edge to a national moment. Anderson, whose performances have helped England get this far, is now being celebrated close to home by a business in the town where he grew up. The fact that the game will be shown on a 9 metre wide TV screen only adds to the appeal for anyone looking for a crowd and a bit of occasion.
There is also a wider storyline around England's run. With the FIFA World Cup semi-finals now here, every appearance carries more weight, and the chance to reach the World Cup final is within sight. For Turknaz, and for many in Whitley Bay, the hope is that Anderson's journey continues a little longer.
It is the kind of public backing that reflects how football connects national moments with local pride. Anderson may be wearing England colours and playing for Nottingham Forest, but in Whitley Bay he is still very much one of their own.
