Jeff Hendrick admits that he is unlikely to play for Newcastle United again as speculation rages regarding a potential move away from the Premier League outfit, speaking to the Irish Mirror.
Unfairly or not, Hendrick has come to be seen by many on Tyneside as a symbol of the club’s malaise during the Mike Ashley era. A posterboy for mediocrity. An emblem of decline.
It would feel rather fitting, then, if the first summer window of the Saudi Arabian ownership coincided with the Irishman’s departure from St James’ Park. Out with the old, and all that.
Hendrick still has two years left on his Newcastle contract. But, following the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes, the renaissance of Joelinton and Eddie Howe’s decision to farm him out on loan at Queens Park Rangers in January, the former Derby County man is under no illusions about what the future holds.
Will Newcastle United sell Jeff Hendrick this summer?
“I’d say it’s a possibility. Things can change, football is crazy like that, but it’s a strong possibility (that I’ve played my final game for Newcastle),” Hendrick admits.
“I wouldn’t say I was unfortunate as I got to go to a massive club. A great club. I played a lot of games under Steve Bruce.
“I don’t (think) it will be a fresh start (this summer). Newcastle have done really well and brought some good players in. I can admit their midfield is very strong with the additions in January. I’d imagine they will strengthen the whole squad again in the summer.
“For me it’s about being realistic and being prepared that I might need to go somewhere else for games. I’m at the age where I want to keep playing and keep going with the international side.
“And it wouldn’t be beneficial for me to hang around and do what I did at the start of the year.”
A return to the Championship?
Hendrick has played some of the best football of his career in the second tier. And while things didn’t really work out at Queens Park Rangers, the 30-year-old is not against the idea of dropping out of the top-flight if it means guaranteed first-team football.
“I went to the Championship in January, and it doesn’t bother me (dropping down). I have played in the Premier League for five-and-a-half years and I’ve enjoyed my time,” Hendrick says.
“I’ve had some real ups and downs but the main thing is going to the right team for me, where I can play my best.”
Newcastle are expected to bid farewell to Dwight Gayle this summer, as well as Isaac Hayden, Jamaal Lascelles, Karl Darlow and more.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
