Jonjo Shelvey issued an emotional goodbye to Newcastle United last night during the Magpies’ Carabao Cup semi final win over Southampton.
The midfielder had spent the day at his new club Nottingham Forest, finalising a move to Steve Cooper’s side. But he drove back to the North East once the deal was done and was able to see Eddie Howe’s side book their place at Wembley.
It was an incredibly emotional evening inside St James’ Park, and that couldn’t have been more true at half time.
Shelvey was introduced to the crowd by stadium announcer Justin Lockwood, and entered the pitch alongside his kids. The 30-year-old received an incredible ovation from fans, as they waved goodbye to a fantastic player.
The midfielder leaves Newcastle after seven years, and what a seven years it has been. He has had ups and downs in a Toon shirt, but he was a player who loved the club and was a leader during difficult times.
Now Shelvey has left, and the club have paid tribute to him following the announcement of his departure.
Jonjo Shelvey hailed as his Newcastle exit is confirmed
The club posted a wonderful video of Shelvey’s best bits in a Toon shirt, while he issued an open letter to the fans via the official website.
There was also a post on Newcastle’s official Instagram account which received multiple replies.
Fabian Schar wrote: “Magic player.”
Nick Pope added: “What a guy.”
Shelvey’s former midfield partner Isaac Hayden also commented: “Special guy, special player.”
Special is the right word to describe Shelvey. The things he can do with a ball at his feet is insane, as Forest fans will soon find out.
Signed by Steve McClaren for £12million, he had a debut to remember against West Ham. His passing was out of this world.
Shelvey’s best season was probably in the Championship. He was outrageously good, dominating English football’s second tier. But he was top class in the Premier League too, and would have played more this season had it not been for injury.
It is a real shame to see Shelvey go – especially with Newcastle now set to compete in the Carabao Cup final later this month. He has been a key player on this emotional journey over the past seven years, and really deserved the chance to represent the club at Wembley.
But that won’t happen. Instead, he heads to Nottingham Forest and will look to help keep Steve Cooper’s side in the top flight.
Good luck, Jonjo! You will be massively missed on Tyneside, and thank you for everything you did in a black and white shirt.
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