Jacob Ramsey
Jacob Ramsey
Jacob Ramsey has penned an emotional farewell message after his transfer from Aston Villa for Premier League rivals Newcastle United was confirmed on Sunday. Midfielder Ramsey joined Villa in 2007, at the age of just six, and brings to an end an association with his boyhood club which has lasted 18 years.
Ramsey , and he follows younger brother Aaron - who left for Burnley a couple of years ago - in leaving the club he supports and the city of his birth.
The midfielder, who scored 17 goals in 167 appearances for Villa, has taken to social media to address his departure, to bid farewell to those at the club and within the fanbase and to say thank you for the support he has received during his years in the Villa first-team, having broken into it under in 2019.
"It’s impossible to put into words what playing for Aston Villa has meant to me," Ramsey wrote on Instagram. "From being a young fan in the Holte End to living my dream and scoring in front of it.
"This club has been an extended family to me, and I’ve got memories for life - from making my Premier League debut, experiencing Champions League nights back at Villa Park and scoring my first goals in those competitions.
"To everyone at Aston Villa, both at the academy and in the first team, thank you for your support, belief and guidance. You’ve helped me become the person and player I am today. I’ve played with some of the best & made friends for life.
"And finally to the fans - thank you for the love and backing. To represent you, as a boy from , has been an absolute honour. Onto the next chapter now, but wish you all nothing but the best in the future. Thank you for everything!! JJ."
To Newcastle's official website, he added: "I'm delighted to be here. It's been a mad two or three days, but I'm really happy to be here and I can't wait to get started.
"This is a big move for me, but as soon as I knew the gaffer was interested and really liked me, it didn't take much time to decide. His track record of developing players, especially those who have gone on to become internationals here, speaks for itself.
"It was always a tough game playing for Villa against Newcastle - the team is full of energy, so athletic and the fans are so passionate. I feel my game will suit that and I'm excited to be on the other end of it now."
His new head coach Eddie Howe said: "Jacob is another fantastic addition to our squad. His qualities will bring us something different on the pitch and he fits the profile of being young and hungry to develop, but also with a wealth of Premier League football under his belt.
"Jacob offers versatility and his directness in attack and has proven to be a real threat at this level in recent seasons. He performed very well in the Champions League last season too and we believe he'll be a major asset for us."
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