Bristol Rovers midfielder Elliot Anderson recalls pranking teammate's new car

Anderson's Gazza-inspired prank left a teammate's car reeking of fish for weeks.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:07am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the playful, mischievous spirit of a group of soccer players pulling a prank on their teammate.A lighthearted prank leaves a lasting stench, exposing the camaraderie and mischief behind the scenes of a professional soccer team.Bristol Today

Elliot Anderson, a midfielder on loan at Bristol Rovers, recently recalled a prank he played on a teammate involving fish that left the teammate's brand-new car smelling foul for weeks. Anderson said the Gazza-inspired prank was one of the memorable moments from his time with Bristol Rovers.

Why it matters

Practical jokes and team bonding are common occurrences in professional sports, though they can sometimes cross ethical lines. This story provides a lighthearted look at the camaraderie and mischief that can happen behind the scenes of a soccer team.

The details

According to Anderson, he and his Bristol Rovers teammates decided to pull a prank on one of their own by stuffing the vents of his brand-new car with fish. The stunt was inspired by a similar prank pulled by former England star Paul Gascoigne, known as Gazza. Anderson said the car reeked of fish for weeks after the prank.

  • The prank occurred during Anderson's loan spell at Bristol Rovers in the 2025-26 season.

The players

Elliot Anderson

A midfielder who was on loan at Bristol Rovers during the 2025-26 season.

Bristol Rovers

The English soccer club where Anderson spent time on loan.

Paul Gascoigne

A former England soccer star whose similar prank inspired Anderson and his teammates.

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What they’re saying

“It was a brand-new car as well.”

— Elliot Anderson, Midfielder

The takeaway

While pranks can be a fun way for teammates to bond, this story serves as a reminder that they should be executed thoughtfully to avoid causing undue harm or damage. The lasting impact of Anderson's fish prank highlights how even lighthearted jokes can have unintended consequences.