Newcastle United has had an unusual week following the departure of several employees, some of whom have been with the team for a very long period.
Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie were the two most notable departures. They were notified, along with veteran players Loris Karius, Kelland Watts, and Jeff Hendrick, that they would not be receiving new contracts when their current ones expire on June 30.
After going through the academy, Dummett spent 23 years as a Newcastle player and went on to make 213 appearances. Ritchie, meanwhile, has made 215 appearances since moving from AFC Bournemouth in 2016.
Both players were crucial to Newcastle’s 2017 Championship title victory and to the team’s continued Premier League status under Steve Bruce and Rafa Benitez. However, Eddie Howe has limited their playing time.
“It’s easy to judge players by appearances and goals, but the contribution made to the club by Paul and Matt in particular really has been immeasurable over many years,” said Howe. “They have had a huge 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 dressing room during my time here has been first class, and they will bring undoubted quality and experience to their next clubs.”
The only player that was out-of-contract this summer who Newcastle have retained is Mark Gillespie. The Geordie goalkeeper last made a competitive appearance four years ago but is highly valued behind the scenes.
After Gillespie came on to help the Magpies see off Tottenham Hotspur on penalties in Australia last week, Howe explained exactly why he was so keen to keep the 32-year-old.
“The work this guy has put in this season is just incredible,” said Howe. “Too often we always talk about the players that are playing but never enough about the players aren’t playing who contribute so much and Mark is one of those.
“His attitude to training is ridiculous every day. You’re on the end of a lot of shots, aren’t you? Day in, day out, he is always there for the players to help them get better and you need a goalkeeper that be there, train everyday and be consistent as Mark is.
“These experiences for Mark, I’m so pleased for him for what he gives every day. There are a lot of players like Mark in the squad who characterise our success. So I just wanted to say that to Mark and share that moment with him.”
Football moves quickly and Newcastle’s focus is very much on next season. And, in 12 months’ time, there will once again be decisions to make with 11 first-team players out-of-contract in 2025 – as it stands.
