Defender spotted at St James' Park after Newcastle United contract decision

For 24 years, Paul Dummett lived the dream, first joining the academy aged eight before progressing through the ranks to make 213 senior appearances.

The 32-year-old left in the summer after his contract came to an end but he continues to follow his roots as he watched his boyhood club and now former teammates beat the Saints 1-0, despite playing an hour with 10 men after Fabian Schar’s red card.

Dummett was sat in the directors’ box and was pictured before the game taking the time out to get photos with supporters. “Paul Dummett a Geordie ALWAYS,” wrote one fan on X, while another said “You can take the man out of #NUFC...”

The defender has been heavily linked with Championship promotion hopefuls Sheffield United but is yet to sign for a new club since departing the Magpies.

Dummett uploaded a photo from Newcastle’s Benton training ground earlier this month as he works on his fitness ahead of securing his next move. The Magpies have previously supported out-of-contract players with Matty Longstaff using the facilities to complete his recovery from an ACL injury before joining MLS side Toronto FC in February.

Dummett maintains a good relationship with the management team at Newcastle with Eddie Howe previously paying tribute and Matt Ritchie. The latter was also released at the end of last season having made 215 appearances after his £12million switch from AFC Bournemouth in 2016.

"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."