Isaac Hayden reacts to Newcastle United 25-man Premier League squad exclusion

Isaac Hayden has publicly addressed his omission from Newcastle United’s 25-man Premier League squad.

In a statement released on Twitter, the 26-year-old admitted he was “bitterly disappointed” to miss out but vowed to support his teammates as best as he could, as they battle for Premier League safety.

The Magpies cited Hayden’s knee injury, which is set to keep him out until late-March after undergoing surgery, as the main reason for his omission.

Ciaran Clark and Jamal Lewis, who reportedly turned down deadline day loans to Middlesbrough and Birmingham City respectively, were also removed from the squad that was first named in August.

Why was Isaac Hayden left out?

Following a busy January transfer window that saw United sign five new players in Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn, Eddie Howe was required to cut three players.

Two spaces were created via Jeff Hendrick’s loan move to Queens Park Rangers and Freddie Woodman’s loan to Bournemouth.

Hayden, along with Clark and Lewis, won’t play again this season, unless a loan can be secured to a European club whose transfer market remains open.

Lewis has been linked with a move to Turkish side Trabzonspor.

Isaac Hayden’s message in full

Hayden said: “I am bitterly disappointed to have not been included in the 25-man squad for the second half of this season due to injury.

“It's been a tough 12 months for me, with injuries massively affecting my availability for the club.

“Now is a time for me to reflect. I'll be working harder than ever before to come back stronger, like I always do.

“I'll be a supporter like everyone else and l'll be supporting the lads and the staff as best I can for the rest of the season.

“We all want to see the club climb the table as much as possible and iI am no exception.

“Take care, Isaac.”