Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has penned an emotional message to the club after his loan spell from Southampton came to an end. The England international returned to the Saints ahead of pre-season after Newcastle opted not to make his loan deal permanent.
Ramsdale made 23 appearances for the Magpies across all competitions last term, competing with Nick Pope for the number one spot. Neither established a long-term hold on the position, which ultimately led to the club deciding against a permanent transfer for the 28-year-old.
In a social media post, Ramsdale thanked the fans, the club and his team-mates. He said: '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.'
Club captain Bruno Guimaraes replied with a love heart emoji, while Kieran Trippier, Nick Woltemade and Sven Botman each called him 'What a guy!'. Joe Willock said he would miss him, and other first-team players also commented. Meanwhile, Newcastle are set for a radical overhaul of their goalkeeping department, with John Ruddy and Max Thompson already departed and Nick Pope tipped to follow. Ewen Jaouen has joined, and another goalkeeper is expected; Mark Gillespie could be the only survivor from last season's unit.
