Newcastle announce Emil Krafth exit as Eddie Howe pays tribute

Swedish full-back Emil Krafth will leave Newcastle United at the end of this season.

The news will hardly come as a shock to anyone, but Emil Krafth will leave the club when his contract expires next month.

The 31-year-old is the next casualty of Ross Wilson's mission to reduce the average age of the squad, but it's also a move that makes sense given how little playing time the Swedish international has had of late.

Krafth was signed by Steve Bruce in 2019, but he never nailed down a spot in the starting lineup. He was pivotal for Eddie Howe in helping the Magpies beat relegation when he took over. Kieran Trippier had picked up an injury shortly after signing, and Howe turned to Krafth to fill the void. He played so well that he earned himself the nickname Krafu.

Newcastle confirm the exit of Emil Krafth

The club announced on Saturday via its official site that Krafth will leave at the end of the season with Eddie Howe chipping in with some high praise for the right-back.

“Emil has embodied what it means to be a Newcastle United player on and off the pitch. He's been a brilliant servant to the club and he absolutely deserves the send-off that I know he'll get at St. James' Park this weekend.

"Emil can be really proud of everything he has achieved here. He's been a big part of our success over the last few seasons and although he's been unfortunate with injury of late, he's played a valuable role behind the scenes with his positive mentality and outstanding professionalism.

"I can only speak highly of Emil as a player and a person, and I speak on behalf of all the backroom staff in thanking him for his commitment and wishing him the very best of luck in whatever comes next."

Krafth has enjoyed his time on Tyneside

Meanwhile, Krafth himself spoke highly of the club, saying that he didn't hesitate when the call came to join the Magpies, and insisting he'd stay for another seven years if he could.

"I was very happy and super excited to sign for Newcastle. It had always been a dream of mine to play in the Premier League and, when Newcastle came, I didn't hesitate at all.

 

"I've been here for seven years now and if I could stay for seven more years, I would do it!"

Best of luck to Krafu, wherever he ends up next season. He was one of our under-the-radar heroes at the club.