Emotional Callum Wilson releases personal statement as Newcastle announce exit

It's finally official. After a month of uncertainty and questions around a potential new deal at Newcastle United, the club have confirmed that Callum Wilson has departed.

The 33-year-old is now a free agent and on the lookout for his next club following five seasons and 49 goals on Tyneside, but has shared an emotional parting message as he bids farewell.

In a personal statement shared by the club's official website, Wilson said:

"To all you Magpies...

It's time to say goodbye after an unbelievable few years in the Toon.

Thank you for everything. We stood strong together through the highs and some lows to help the club experience new heights.

I am so proud to have worn the iconic number 9 shirt and to have added a little more history to it. Scoring at the Gallowgate End really is as special as they say.

All good things come to an end but there's no doubt Newcastle United will always have a place in mine and my families hearts.

Thank you for the memories.

CW9."

Wilson was a great character, a big voice in the dressing room and a leader who brought confidence and charisma to the squad, but also goals on the pitch.

He was key to keeping us up under Steve Bruce during some tough times and scored 18 vital goals over the 2022/23 season to send us back to the Champions League.

A vital servant during two very different eras on Tyneside. He always gave his all, scored some huge goals (and plenty of them), got and England call up and left with a winners medal too after that unforgettable day at Wembley just a few months ago.

Thanks for everything and good luck, Callum.