Newcastle United announce retained list — shock as several players released

Newcastle United Women has announced its retained list ahead of the 2023-24 FA Women’s National League North Premier Division season - with 10 players surprisingly released.

A Lady Magpies statement read: “In line with FA regulations, Newcastle United Women can confirm that the club has retained the following 16 players for the 2023/24 season: Katie Barker, Grace Boyes, Daisy Burt, Grace Donnelly, Kacie Elson, Rebecca Ferguson, Georgia Gibson, Cara Milne-Redhead, Erin Nelson, Bianca Owens, Charlotte Potts, Hannah Reid, Keira Skelton, Anna Soulsby, Olivia Watt, Sharna Wilkinson.

“In addition, the following players have not been retained by the club for the 2023/24 season: Freya Bailes, Millie Bell, Ellie Dobson, Beth Guy, Jane Harland, Rachel Lee, Ellen Packham, Charlyann Pizzarello, Lauren Robson, Emma Wallis.

“Newcastle United Women expresses sincere thanks to the ten players listed above for their extremely valued contributions over the years to the success of the club and wishes them all the very best for the future.”

In addition, Newcastle boss Becky Langley expressed her gratitude to the departing players after they helped the side to promotion and the National League Division One North title last season.

Langley said: “I would like to personally thank the players who will be departing at the end of the 22/23 season. They have achieved success, embraced the fans and inspired the next generation. That counts for so much.

“Their support to me on and off the pitch has been immeasurable. It’s hard to beat a team that gives their best and is having fun. That’s what these players instilled whilst living and breathing the club’s values. Some of these players have played for me for over four years. I would more than anything just like to say thank you for the memories.

“There has been laughter, tears of anger, tears of joy and some fantastic moments to celebrate. It has been an absolute rollercoaster but what a ride. I will never ever forget every single player’s contribution this season. These players will always have a special place in my heart and my football career.

“No one can ever take this promotion and moment in history away from the players. We simply would not be in this position without every single one of them. I will cherish the memories and I wouldn’t want to have done it with a different group of girls. I am proud to have managed each of them, it has been a real privilege working with all of them and I wish them all the best of luck for the future.”

Langley is facing a big recruitment drive this summer as she looks to build a squad capable of competing in the Women’s third-tier. Magpies co-owner Amanda Staveley has not hidden her ambition to build the Lady Magpies in the Super League outfit.