Free agent spotted at Goodison Park after Newcastle United contract decision & statement
A familiar face watched on from the away end as Newcastle United played out a goalless draw with Everton at Goodison Park.
Paul Dummett was on the books at Newcastle for 24 years, first joining the academy aged eight before going to make 213 senior appearances between 2013 and 2024.
He was released in the summer but in many ways has remained part of the football club.
The 33-year-old remains without a new club - despite being linked with Portsmouth, Sheffield United and Wolverhampton Wanderers - and has often spent time back at United’s Benton training centre to work on his fitness.
And he also continues to cheer his boyhood club from the terraces having been part of the 3,000 Geordies that made the trip to Merseyside.
Issuing a farewell message to Newcastle in July, the former Wales international said he “was looking forward to becoming a fan again”.
Dummett wrote: “The time has come for me to say goodbye to the club. I write this message with a heavy heart having been proud to have represented the first team for 12 years, something I never thought in a million years I’d ever achieve.
“I grew up a Newcastle fan and a season ticket holder, joining the club as an eight-year-old. Leaving at 32, my time at Newcastle is something I could have only dreamed of. 24 years of dedicating my life to playing for Newcastle United, I leave with my head held high and proud of the achievements we’ve had as a team in my time here.
“Through all the highs and the lows, from winning promotion back to the Premier League after relegation to captaining the team multiple times and being back in the Champions League. Memories for a lifetime.
“I’d like to thank all the coaches in the academy who helped start my journey and to the six managers I have worked under at the club who all showed great faith in me during my career. There are so many other people I would also like to thank. All the incredible staff I have worked with over the years, all the players I’ve played with and friends I’ve made along the way.
“A special thank you to my family for their constant support. I couldn’t have done it without you. Eddie Howe has been incredible since he joined in 2021, securing Premier League survival and bringing back Champions League football.
“Although I haven’t played as much as I would’ve liked, what an incredible journey it’s been. Eddie is an amazing leader. His work ethic, honesty and belief has been nothing short of inspiring. I am honoured to have had the opportunity to work under him. And most important of all, I’d like to thank the Newcastle fans for their support.
“I can say with pride that every time I stepped on the pitch in black and white I’ve given it my all. There is no feeling that will, or could ever compare to the roar and passion when walking out into St James’ Park. The best fans in the world. I’m looking forward to becoming a fan again and to the next chapter of my career. Newcastle United will always be my home. I’ll always be… one of your own.”