'We loved each other' - Newcastle careers ending this week as players and staff get emotional

Newcastle United had just defeated Burnley to finish in 11th place, but it was a final day victory tinged with sadness for some of these players as it may be the last time they share a dressing room together. Even Eddie Howe, who is always so measured, admitted the traditional end of season address was 'quite an emotional moment' on Sunday.

It is easy to see why. New players will arrive this summer, and in the years to come, but the contribution the club's stalwarts have made will never be forgotten.

Not only did several members of this group help take Newcastle back to the Premier League, in 2017, but they also helped keep the Magpies in the top-flight when their backs were against the wall. It is not an exaggeration to say that had they not done that, an already protracted takeover might have been even more complicated - and that really is saying something.

This core group would love to continue to be a part of the new era, but there are question marks surrounding the futures of a host of long-serving individuals, including Isaac Hayden, Ciaran Clark, Karl Darlow, Dwight Gayle, Matt Ritchie, Federico Fernandez and Javier Manquillo. Between them, the septet have made nearly 900 appearances for the club.

It is unclear just who will ultimately depart when some of the group have long contracts and young families who are settled in the area. However, Howe has already admitted that he is 'sure there will be players that will move on who have represented the club in a brilliant way' ahead of sitting down with his players this week. Whatever happens, their place in the club's recent history is secure.

Indeed, when Newcastle's dressing room could have folded, on a number of occasions over the years, the Magpies' experienced