Newcastle announce five players will leave this summer as longest-serving man departs
Five of Newcastle's first team players will leave the club this summer.
Matt Ritchie, Paul Dummett, Loris Karius, Kell Watts and Jeff Hendrick will leave St James' Park after their contracts expire on June 30.
Long-serving duo Dummett and Ritchie have made a combined total of 428 competitive appearances for the club.
Dummett is the club's longest-serving current player, originally coming through the Magies' academy after joining 23 years ago at the age of nine.
Karius, meanwhile, has made two competitive first-team appearances since joining in January 2023.
Participated in the 2023 Carabao Cup final defeat against manchester united and then again in the 4-1 Premier League defeat to Arsenal in February.
Hendrick and youth product Watts have spent most of their time at the club on loan in the Football League.
in a statement Released on Wednesday, Newcastle coach Eddie Howe said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to each of the players
Leaving the club this summer.
“They have all contributed so much to the cause in their own way, and I know our fans will join me in wishing them every success in the next step of their careers.
“It's easy to judge players by their appearances and goals, but the contribution made to the club by Paul and Matt in particular has been immeasurable over many years.
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“They have had a great influence on our progress as a team and as a club.
“They have been incredible people and players to work with. Their dedication, professionalism and leadership in the locker room during my time here has been top-notch, and they will bring undoubted quality and experience to their next clubs.
“It is also a significant moment for Kell, who has been at the club since he was eight years old. Kell is a top professional with an exceptional attitude and his next club will be incredibly lucky to have him.
“I wish the players and their families the best for the future.”
Meanwhile, Newcastle pressing for an answer on a possible deal for Fulham centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo this summer.
The defender expires on June 30 and is available on a free transfer, although Chelsea and Manchester United are also interested.
