Newcastle United have announced the departure of five first-team players, including two experienced veterans. Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie will be leaving the club once their contracts expire next month. Dummett, who is the club’s longest-serving player, joined the academy at the age of nine and made his debut in 2013. He has made 215 appearances for Newcastle. Ritchie, who joined from Bournemouth in 2016, played a crucial role in Rafa Benitez’s Championship-winning side and scored 25 goals in 215 matches for the club.
In addition to Dummett and Ritchie, goalkeeper Loris Karius is also leaving St. James’ Park after 18 months. The German, who made his debut in last season’s Carabao Cup final, has had limited playing time during his spell at Newcastle. Midfielder Jeff Kendrick, who joined as a free agent from Burnley, will also be departing after four years. Kendrick made 27 appearances and scored three goals for the club but has spent time on loan at QPR, Reading, and Sheffield Wednesday.
Another player being released is defender Kell Watts, who trained with Newcastle’s academy from a young age. Although he only appeared once in the Premier League, Watts gained valuable experience during loan spells in the Football League with various clubs. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe expressed his gratitude to the departing players and acknowledged their contributions to the team. He emphasized the significant impact that Dummett and Ritchie have had on the club’s progress and praised their professionalism and leadership.
Alongside the first-team players, six academy players are also being released, including one who recently made their Premier League debut. Matty Bondswell, Kyle Crossley, Amadou Diallo, Jordan Hackett, Michael Ndiweni, and Jude Smith are all searching for new clubs. Diallo, who came off the bench against Chelsea last November, had a taste of top-flight action at a young age.
The departures of these players mark a significant moment for Newcastle United as they prepare for the upcoming season. While it is natural for clubs to undergo changes in their squad, the impact of these players, particularly Dummett and Ritchie, should not be overlooked. Their experience and contributions behind the scenes have been invaluable to the team. As they embark on the next chapter of their careers, they will undoubtedly bring quality and leadership to their new clubs. Meanwhile, the departing academy players have the opportunity to find new clubs and continue their development in the world of professional football.
Newcastle United fans will bid farewell to these players who have given their all for the club. The supporters, along with Eddie Howe and the rest of the coaching staff, wish them the very best for their future endeavors. While it is always sad to see familiar faces leave, it is also an opportunity for new talents to emerge and make their mark in the team. As Newcastle United looks ahead to the next season, fans can expect a mix of fresh faces and experienced players who will continue to strive for success on the pitch.