Jonas Gutierrez hits out at Newcastle owner Mike Ashley for lack of support during his illness
Newcastle have released Argentine winger Jonas Gutierrez who has been at the club since 2008. The Tyne-side club also let go of defender Ryan Taylor who is also a long time servant of the club (since 2009).
The Argentine was battling testicular cancer at the start of the season, however, in due course, having made a full recovery from illness he did make a return to the Newcastle side and returned to the pitch.
On the last day of the season, Gutierrez assisted one goal and scored the second in Newcastle’s 2-0 win over West Ham to help John Carver’s side secure another season in the top flight.
The 31-year-old unhappy with the way he left the club took to Twitter to send out a message: “Two things I learn from my illness how you can support a player (newcastle fans) and how you leave a player alone (newcastle owner)”.
He also further thanked Newcastle supporters on Facebook, his post read, “Thanks to all football fans and Newcastle fans for supporting me and trust in me.
“This is a way to demonstrate I always hear you. You are very important to me, football wouldn't be the same without you. All my effort and affection is for you!”
When Gutierrez was quizzed about his thoughts on what needs to happen at Newcastle going forward, he added: “That’s a good question for the owner.
“I think the club has to learn what has happened in the last few years when they have been in charge of the club.
“It’s important to think about good and bad decisions. It’s good for learning, and to improve. They have to take note about what has happened during the last few years.
“They have to think what they are going to do, if they are going to go forward. They have to think about what is best for the city.”
Newcastle’s statement
The club’s Managing Director Lee Charnley spoke about the departure of both Gutierrez and Taylor, he said: “Ryan and Jonas have both contributed significantly to Newcastle United over a number of years and on behalf of the board, I would like to place on record our sincere thanks to both players for the excellent service they have given the club.
“It was a great pleasure to see Ryan and Jonas come back into the team in recent weeks and compete at the highest level after the injury and illness battles they have had to overcome.
“To come through those difficult periods with such strength and dignity will have given hope and inspiration to many and it is clear that our supporters have a deep connection and affection for both players, as does everyone associated with the club.”