Newcastle United players held what could be an emotional farewell for some stars after their 2-1 win at Burnley.
Despite an excellent season, there has been an acceptance behind the scenes that not everybody will be able to stay on next season and for some of the squad, Sunday was their last trip with the Magpies. Question marks are certainly above a number of squad members but Howe will hold talks with many of them this week before heading away on holiday.
Whether Howe's introduction of Matt Ritchie was a farewell gesture remains to be seen but there will certainly be plenty of interest in the 2017 promotion hero. While Dwight Gayle, Karl Darlow and Federico Fernandez are also possible leavers this summer.
Decisions on Sean Longstaff and Matt Targett are also expected in the coming days and weeks but the reality is the squad will have a new look when they resume on July 1. Howe is keen to retain the bulk of the first-team spirit that led the club to survival though.
For the record
Newcastle United ended the season on 49 points and matched the total of Alan Pardew's side in 2014. This was the club's best performance in terms of points since promotion and their best since Pardew's last full season.
And in terms of position, this was United's best finish for four years when Rafa Benitez managed a 10th place position, albeit with five less points than this term.
Moving ahead Newcastle's first aim for next season will be getting comfortable in the top 10 while a long-term target may be eyeing a Europa Conference League place.
Joelinton relief
The Brazilian left the ground on crutches with his right foot in a protective boot but he is expected to be fine for pre-season training. Donning his holiday shorts and a t-shirt the South American looked set for a well deserved break after his player of the year performances.
Howe said afterwards: "He was in good spirits in the dressing room though. He had a boot on, but said he was okay, so that’s great news." And at the same time, Joelinton was leaving the ground with a smile on his face.
