Newcastle United news as Magpies departure confirmed…

Newcastle United news as Magpies departure confirmed for legend physio after 38 years

Here are the latest Newcastle United evening headlines on Saturday, July 2.

Wright leaves Toon after 38 years

Derek Wright has left Newcastle after 38 years of fantastic service at the club. The departure of the long-standing physiotherapist was confirmed in a statement written on the official website earlier today.

He leaves having worked under 32 different managers since arriving at United in 1984 and while members of the backroom staff are rarely given legendary status, Wright is certainly an icon of the club. He said: "It hasn't been an easy decision to leave the club that I love, and which has been my life for nearly 40 years.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to work for Newcastle United Football Club and I would like to thank all of the managers, coaches, players, staff and fans who have made it such a memorable time. I am very happy to maintain my connection with the club, but I am looking forward to the future spending and enjoying time with my family.

“I will continue supporting my club as always watching the team go from strength to strength."

Dubravka’s agent not worried by Nick Pope’s arrival

It is hard to see how Martin Dubravka and Nick Pope will both get the game time they desire for the Magpies over the next 12 months. Although, the agent of the Slovakian goalkeeper – David Zik – is not unduly worried about the signing of the England international.

"We had a call with Martin about this topic. Of course, we are aware that Nick is a quality goalkeeper and domestic representative,” he told Sport.sk.

"On the other hand, Martin has nothing to fear. In terms of quality, Martin is one of the best in the Premier League. We'll see how it all develops.

“We understand that Newcastle United wants to have all posts doubled in quality. However, Martin has long been among the best goalkeepers in the Premier League."

Lille sent classy Botman message after Toon announcement

Sven Botman’s move to St James’ Park was finally announced yesterday afternoon after a saga which threatened to rumble on throughout the summer. Reacting to his departure, Lille posted a classy statement to their website wishing the Dutchman all the best.

"Have a good trip champ! Sven was still just 20 when he signed for Lille from Ajax and it was his first season with the professionals. He instantly demonstrated his solidity and ease in the heart of the Lille defence and formed a partnership with the more experienced José Fonte.

“In his first season he was used 47 times in the 2020/21 campaign. In his second year he was a major player and helped Lille to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

"He was called up by the Dutch national team a few months ago and now starts a new chapter with Newcastle, a club with a long tradition of ex-Lille players in Yohan Cabaye, Mathieu Debuchy, David Rozehnal, Loic Remy and Patrick Kluivert. He will leave Lille with the memory of a very high-level defender who left his mark on the club."