Hayden could have a future at Newcastle despite report

Isaac Hayden may have an uncertain future at Newcastle United as he was omitted from their Premier League squad after picking up a lengthy knee injury. Luke Edwards of the Telegraph says the Magpies could accept offers for the 27-year-old as he might be surplus to requirements next season, but Hayden might be worth keeping now he’s recovered.

He joined Newcastle from Arsenal in 2016 and has gone on to make 171 appearances in all competitions, scoring seven goals with 10 assists. Hayden has made only 14 Premier League appearances this season due to injury, so he’s not featured for the Toon Army since mid-December 2021.

Newcastle are expected to strengthen the squad heavily, so Edwards’ thinking might be that an upgrade on Hayden will be brought in, but Howe will still need squad players. Bruno Guimaraes was signed in January to play a holding role, but he’s more adept higher up the pitch, so the Magpies still don’t have a natural defensive-midfielder.

Sean Longstaff has operated in the makeshift role at times, but he could be moved on this summer as he’s been unhappy with a lack of playing time. So Hayden will be useful even if a new face is brought in. The 27-year-old has a contract until 2026 too, so Newcastle don’t have to cash in just yet.

Having a ball-winner who can protect the backline is valuable, even if he’s playing a supporting role, so Howe shouldn’t rush to offload Hayden.

In other news, Newcastle right to sell Federico Fernandez