Newcastle United are letting go of five first-team players who have yet to be offered new deals, including their longest-serving player at the club for 24 years.
Paul Dummett joined his local club aged eight and came through the Magpies youth system before making his debut in January 2013.
The defender has played 213 games, scoring four times.
@NUFC ❤️ pic.twitter.com/yz7kzj1F3J
— Paul Dummett (@PaulDummett) May 29, 2024
Dummett posted an emotional message to fans on social media with a heavy heart, saying: “I was so proud to represent the first team for 12 years – something I never in a million years thought I would ever achieve.
“I grew up a Newcastle fan and have season tickets. My time at the club was something I could only dream of. For 24 years I have dedicated my life to playing for Newcastle United. I leave with my head held high and proud of the achievements we have had as a team during my time here.
“Although I haven't played as well as I would have liked, it has been an amazing journey. Eddie Howe is an amazing leader, his work ethic, honesty and conviction have been an inspiration. I feel honored to have the opportunity to work with him.”
Also leaving after 200 appearances is Matt Ritchie who signed from Bournemouth in 2016.
Like Dummett, Scotland international Richie helped Rafael Benítez's side win the competition in 2016/17. He has scored 25 goals in 215 games – the last of which was an equalizer against his former club in February.
Another departure at the end of his contract is former Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius, who made two appearances after arriving in January 2023 – the 2023 League Cup final against Man United and a Premier League game at Arsenal in February.
Midfielder Jeff Hendrick leaves four years after joining as a free agent, having made 27 appearances and scored three goals before being loaned out to QPR, Reading and Sheffield Wednesday.
Academy graduate defender Kell Watts is leaving 16 years after joining the club from Cramlington Juniors.
The 24-year-old made his Premier League debut in 2020 and has made 100 EFL appearances during loan spells with Stevenage, Mansfield, Plymouth, Wigan and Peterborough.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe told the club's website: “They have all contributed so much to the effort in their own way, and I know our fans will join me in wishing them every success on the next step in their careers.”
“It's easy to judge players by looks and goals, but the contribution made to the team, especially by Paul and Matt, has been unmatched for many years. They had a huge impact on our development as a team and as a team.
“It has been amazing people and players that I work with. Their dedication, professionalism and leadership in the dressing room during my time here has been first class, and they will bring undoubted quality and experience to their next teams.
“It's also an important moment for Kell, who has been with the team since he was eight years old. Kell is a great player with a great attitude, and his next club will be very lucky to have him.”
“Paul is one of the success stories of our Academy. He is a shining example for young players in the region, and while Matt arrived at Newcastle in a different way, he will always be a welcome Geordie.
Paul Dummett, Matt Ritchie, Loris Karius, Jeff Hendrick and Kell Watts will leave the club when their contracts expire this summer.
Thanks for your contributions guys! 🖤🤍
– Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) May 29, 2024
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