Newcastle United are expected to announce the departure of several youngsters in the coming days and weeks.
Newcastle United have bid farewell to one of their longest-serving academy players.
Ashington-born James Huntley has announced he is leaving Newcastle at the end of his contract, bringing the curtain down on 14 years at the club.
Huntley joined aged eight and progressed through youth ranks. The 21-year-old never made a first-team appearance but he was given an experience he’ll never forget after being named on the bench for Newcastle’s 1-1 draw away to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last season.
The midfielder spent the second half of the 2024-25 campaign on loan at National League North side Spennymoor Town before being informed of his release.
Newcastle United academy graduate bids farewell after 14 years
“After 14 years at my boyhood club it’s now time to move on and say goodbye,” Huntley wrote on social media. “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🖤🤍 #nufc”
Newcastle midfielder Lewis Miley wished Huntley well in the comments, as did midfielder Isaac Hayden and former long-serving defender Paul Dummett.
Newcastle United set to announce academy retained list
It is usually around May time that Newcastle publish their academy retained list, with several other youngsters expected to leave the club. The Magpies released 13 players last summer, all of whom have gone to play in non-league.
Read More
“I would like to thank all of the players who are leaving for their efforts throughout their time with the Academy,” academy director Steve Harper said last year. “They have all grown as players and people during their time here and should be incredibly proud of everything they have achieved representing Newcastle United.
"All of the players know that the Academy is here to support them as they prepare for the next steps in their careers. I now look forward to following their journeys and we all wish them every success in the future.”
Continue Reading