'All the best' - Newcastle United midfielder issues farewell message ahead of summer return

Hayden has just concluded his loan spell at Portsmouth where, after joining in January, helped them retain their Championship status. Pompey were in the relegation zone when Hayden arrived but finished 16th, five points above the drop zone.

The 30-year-old made 17 appearances in total, the last of which came as a substitute in Saturday’s final day draw against Hull City. Hayden bid farewell to the Fratton Park crowd during the lap of honour before posting a heartfelt message on social media.

Isaac Hayden sends message to Portsmouth supporters

“Job done ✅ safety ensured, @pompey a championship club again next season, which is vital in their rise back to the EPL in years to come,” Hayden wrote on Instagram. “A fantastic club with amazing support and rich heritage.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to play for this club. Thanks to the owners, Rich and the coaching staff for the chance to come in and try to affect the club in a positive way.

“Thanks to my team mates, a fantastic group with so much quality and heart that will flourish again next season. Thank you to you fans, without you football is nothing, just sorry for the away performances not giving you more good results.

“Wish everyone associated with Portsmouth FC all the best for the future…. PUP”.

What’s next for Isaac Hayden?

Hayden will return to Newcastle ahead of the 2025-26 season, however is expected to train alone whilst he searches for a new club.

The midfielder has no future at St James’ Park having last made a first-team appearance in December 2021, though he did feature twice for the under-21s in the National League Cup last year.

Hayden was unable to secure a new club last summer, meaning he remained with the Magpies during the first-half of the season. He has previously spent time on loan at Norwich City, Standard Liege and Queens Park Rangers.

Another loan spell next season is likely to signal the end of Hayden’s time on Tyneside as he is out of contract in 2026. However, a permanent exit could materialise if both parties can agree to an early termination.

Isaac Hayden speaks highly of Eddie Howe

Hayden joined Newcastle from Arsenal in 2016 and has gone to make over 170 appearances. Despite being frozen out by Eddie Howe, the Jamaican international insists he holds no grudges.

"The manager (Eddie Howe) is really, really good there,” Hayden said previously. “He has called me probably every couple of weeks, just to see how I am and how I’m getting on. He talks about the lads back there and how they’re getting on too.

"A lot of people probably think I might not like the staff that came in because I didn’t play as much as I would’ve wished. But I have nothing but great things to say about Eddie Howe as a person. He’s a top-level coach; probably the best I’ve had in terms of man-management."

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