A familiar face was in the stands at St James’ Park as Newcastle United kicked off their Premier League campaign with a hard-fought victory over Southampton.
Paul Dummett lived the dream for 24 years, first joining the academy aged eight before progressing through the ranks to make 213 senior appearances.
The 32-year-old left in the summer after his contract expired but continues to follow his roots as he watched his boyhood club and now former team-mates beat Saints 1-0 despite playing on following Fabian Schar’s red card hour with 10 players.
Dummett sat in the directors’ box and was photographed before the game, taking time to pose for pictures with fans. “Paul Dummett a Geordie ALWAYS,” one fan wrote on X, while another said: “You can take the man out of #NUFC…”
The defender has been heavily linked with champions Sheffield United but is yet to sign for a new club since leaving the Magpies.
Dummett uploaded a photo from the Benton pitch in Newcastle earlier this month as he works on his fitness ahead of securing his next move. The Magpies have supported out-of-contract players in the past, with Matty Longstaff using the facilities to complete his recovery from an ACL injury before joining MLS side Toronto FC in February.
Dummett has a good relationship with Newcastle’s management team with the previously vaunted Eddie Howe and Matt Ritchie. The latter was also released at the end of last season after making 215 appearances following a £12m move from AFC Bournemouth in 2016.
“It’s easy to judge players by looks and goals, but Paul and Matt’s contribution to the club over many years has been truly immeasurable,” Howe said. “They had a huge impact on our progress as a team and as a club.
“They have been amazing people and players to work with. Their commitment, professionalism and leadership in the dressing room during my time here has been first class and they will bring undoubted quality and experience to their next clubs.”