Striker completes transfer after Newcastle United contract decision & Chelsea appearance

The 20-year-old striker joined the Magpies’ academy in 2016 and progressed through the ranks, eventually making his Premier League debut as a late substitute against Chelsea at St James’ Park last November. That was Ndiweni’s only senior appearance after being loaned to Scottish League One side Annan Athletic for the second-half of last season.

Ndiweni was among several academy players not offered a new contract. He has spent time on trial at several North East non-league clubs, including Darlington and Blyth Spartans, before earning a deal at Northern Premier League East Division side Ashington.

“We are delighted to welcome Michael Ndiweni to the club,” Ashington announced on X, formerly known as Twitter. “The 20 year old striker joined the Newcastle academy in 2016, signing his first professional contract with the club in July 2022 which was later extended in the summer of 2023.

“He made his first team debut for Newcastle United on 25 November 2023, appearing as a second-half substitute in a 4-1 home win at St James' Park in a Premier League tie against Chelsea.

“Michael will unfortunately not be eligible to play in tomorrow night's Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round replay, but will be eligible for selection in the Isuzu FA Trophy against Congleton Town on Saturday. Welcome to NE63 Michael!”

Back in May, Ndiweni took to social to issue a goodbye message to his boyhood club, it read: “After 8 years it’s now time to say goodbye to my boyhood club. During these years I’ve experienced things that 12-year-old me could have only hoped for.

“I was once a kid in the stands that used to watch Newcastle United every other week and dreamed of being able to put on that black and white shirt. I have been able to represent this unbelievable club from academy level to the 1st team and to make my Premier league debut at St James Park is something that I will never forget.

Watch Geordie Journos on ShotsTV! Marc Guehi & why Steve Parish may lack respect

“I would like to give a massive thank you to all my teammates, the coaches, and the staff members who have helped me along this journey and have made it possible. “Also I would like to thank all the NUFC fans that have shown me support throughout my time at the club. I loved representing the city and people that are me.

“I will be forever grateful for the support I have received and they will always have a place in my heart. “I will never ever forget my time here. All the ups and the downs will stay with me forever. I am just so grateful that I have been given the opportunity to play for the club that I have always supported and loved. Thanks for everything! .”