Everton’s final game of the season at Newcastle United is approaching, and for Ashley Young, it will be his last.
The second half of the season for Everton has been brilliant as David Moyes managed to guide the Toffees to a 13th-placed finish in the top flight.
If you asked any Evertonian for this outcome under Sean Dyche, they would have snapped your hand off.
But with the end of the season brewing, players will be leaving, and Young is one of them.
Young rejected a pay cut at Everton, so the full-back will be hoping he can be involved in what he hopes to be Newcastle’s demise.
Photo by Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images
Photo by Shaun Brooks – CameraSport via Getty Images
Ashley Young on why he wants Everton to beat Newcastle United
The 39-year-old will be calling an end to his two-season stay on Merseyside and will be hoping he can end it with a win.
Young has actually had a major involvement this season with 31 appearances to his name, which is impressive for someone of his age.
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The full-back has made his future clear as Young wants to stay in the Premier League despite his exit.
What he also wants is to beat Newcastle, but there is a specific reason why he wants to end their chances of Champions League football.
Speaking to talkSPORT with Jeff Stelling and Gabby Agbonlahor (22/05/25), Young explained that beating the Toon Army would make his final game ‘even better’ due to his teammate Jordan Pickford.
“It’d be nice if (Pickford), given his roots with Sunderland, can stop Newcastle from getting in the Champions League,” Young said.
“That’d make (my final game) even better.”
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Young had a masterclass for Everton at Newcastle away last time
With it being his final game for the club, Moyes might see fit to give him a start in what will be an emotional day for the veteran.
The Scotsman has already managed Young during his short stay at Manchester United, so he will know what a career he has had so far.
Not only this, but Young has actually played well for the Toffees this season, with Young dominating the likes of Gabriel Martinelli at times.
Another reason he deserves his final start is after his performance at St. James’ Park last campaign.
Young’s display in Newcastle 1-1 Everton (23/24)
Minutes played 90
Passing accuracy % 64%
Penalties won 1
Dribble success % 100%
Recoveries 6
With Jarrad Branthwaite injured, it means Jake O’Brien will be guaranteed to start at centre-back, and the right-back role will be fully open for Young on his farewell.