'Thank you' - Newcastle United goodbye message as triple exit made official

Newcastle United have confirmed six players will be leaving the academy at the end of their contracts this month. And some have already taken to social media to issue a farewell message.

The Magpies published their first-team retained list on Friday afternoon with Jamal Lewis, as it stands, the only player to be released. Callum Wilson and John Ruddy are out of contract on June 30 but could yet stay as talks over a possible new deal continue.

Fifth-choice goalkeeper Mark Gillespie has penned a one-year contract extension while Lloyd Kelly’s loan move to Juventus has turned permanent after the centre-back hit the criteria to trigger a £20million deal.

Newcastle United duo issue farewell message after announcement

Just hours later, Newcastle also announced their academy retained list, confirming Jay Turner-Cooke, Ellis Stanton, twin brothers Harry & Rory Powell, Josh Donaldson and James Huntley are due to be released. In the days since the announcement, two players have taken to Instagram to bid goodbye.

Turner-Cooke joined the Magpies from Tyne-Wear rivals Sunderland in January 2021 and played in a handful of first-team friendlies, including away to Gateshead when he scored a 3-2 victory. The 21-year-old midfielder had loan spells at Tranmere Rovers and St Johnstone but struggled to make a notable impression.

Thankyou @nufc,” Turner-Cooke. “Thank you to the staff and players I’ve met along the way I’ve loved playing and working alongside side you!❤️ Excited for what’s next💫⚽️”

Stanton spent 13 years at Newcastle, progressing through the academy to training with the first team.

“After 13 years @nufc, I want to thank the players and staff for the support I’ve received on and off the pitch,” the midfielder wrote. “I’ve got memories that will stick with me for a lifetime. I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my career, thank you for everything 🤍🖤.”

Meanwhile, Huntley announced his exit before the club’s statement. The 21-year-old’s most memorable was being named on the bench for the 1-1 Champions League draw away to Paris Saint-Germain in December 2023.

Huntley wrote: “After 14 years at my boyhood club, it’s now time to move on and say goodbye. From being a 7-year old boy to the man I am today, I will forever be grateful for everything this club has given me.

“I would like to thank everyone that has helped me throughout my career so far. I’ve got memories and experiences that will stick with me for a lifetime. It’s now time for me to move on to the next step of my journey. Thank you for everything @nufc forever my club🖤🤍”

Steve Harper comments on Newcastle United academy departures

Commenting on the academy exits, academy director Steve Harper said: "I want to extend my gratitude to all the players who are moving on from the Academy. Their commitment and growth - both as footballers and individuals - reflect the dedication they have shown throughout their time representing Newcastle United.

"They have been a credit to themselves, their families and to the club and they should be immensely proud of everything they’ve achieved.

"Our support doesn’t stop here. The Academy remains a resource for them as they take the next steps in their careers, and I look forward to seeing where their journeys take them. On behalf of everyone here, we wish them every success for the future."

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