'What a group' - Aaron Ramsdale thanks Newcastle United ahead of new season

Newcastle United opted against retaining the services of Aaron Ramsdale after the Southampton goalkeeper spent the season on loan at St James' Park.

While Ramsdale never fully cemented his place as the first-choice goalkeeper last season, he did give Nick Pope a good run for his money at times.

It may just have been us, but we felt a bit more confident with the former Arsenal man between the sticks, especially when the defence was trying to play out of the back using the goalkeeper as an outlet.

Ramsdale's distribution and calmness under pressure were light years ahead of Nick Pope's, but Pope probably had Ramsdale beat on shot-stopping ability. Between them, they made one excellent goalkeeper.

The 28-year-old was nominated for Save of the Month in April after winning the same award in March.

Aaron Ramsdale loved his time at Newcastle

Despite not being terrible, Ramsdale clearly didn't do enough to impress, and he returned to Southampton when his loan spell ended.

Ahead of the new season, Ramsdale has taken to Instagram to say a few words about his time at Newcastle.

"As pre season begins I want to take the time to thank @nufc and everyone associated with the football club for the honour and responsibility of playing for your football club.
"Thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Toon with lots of learning too!
"The passion you fans have for the football club I have nothing but respect for and thank you for supporting me along the way.
"Big love to the boys man! What a group we had, top people so many laughs, love you all ❤️"

It wasn't meant to be with Aaron Ramsdale

I was a bit gutted it didn't work out for Ramsdale as I'd wanted him at the club before he made the switch to Southampton, so when it was announced we'd signed him on loan, I felt confident he'd do enough to earn a permanent move.

A goalkeeper is still a high priority for Newcastle's transfer plans this summer, with James Trafford and Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki among the names being looked at.

Big thanks to Rambo and good luck for the new season.