Steven Taylor will be released by Newcastle United when his contract expires at the end of the month, the club have confirmed.
Taylor has been a long-term servant to his boyhood club, making over 268 appearances, including 32 in European competitions. His departure means Tim Krul is now the longest serving player on the books at St James’ Park.
The Chronicle claim Taylor was offered a one-year contract extension, but the 29-year-old could not agree to the significant wage cut. Instead, Taylor will be searching for a new club this summer, with offers from England and abroad on the table.
Upon leaving the club, Steven issued the following statement on the club’s website: “It will be a huge wrench to leave Newcastle but I’ve been offered exciting opportunities both in the UK and abroad and I’m really looking forward to my next challenge.
“I’ve loved my time at Newcastle. I’ll always be a huge fan of the Club and I’ll be returning to St James’ Park as a supporter whenever I can.”
Rafa Benitez also issued a statement, in response to Steven’s departure: “Steven has been a very good player for this Club for a long time and his character and personality has always been very positive, including during difficult times.
“I would like to thank Steven for his service and I wish him well for his future.”
Newcastle are already working hard to identify potential replacements for Taylor, with Steven Caulker being touted as a likely candidate.
