Newcastle have reacted with delight to speculation that manager Rafael Benitez has put Jack Colback up for sale.
The Chronicle claims that that Benitez has decided that the central midfielder, 27, is “up for grabs” to potential buyers this summer as he seeks drastic improvements to his squad over the summer.
It is reported that Colback is one of eight senior players who the former Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid boss has decided does not cut the mustard at St James’ Park.
Colback featured heavily in Newcastle’s Championship title-winning campaign but bore the brunt of criticism from supporters for what they claimed were mediocre performances.
Fans of the club greeted reports that the Sunderland academy product could leave this summer with almost universal acclaim.
This Is Futbol has rounded up some of their best Twitter messages:
Colback is horrific. Should be first out the door.
— HeisenBurns (@BenArfaChance) June 6, 2017
totally agree colback is championship, not sure on anything for mitro
— Sam Chipperfield (@SamChipperfield) June 6, 2017
Rafa’s not daft Colback is absolutely awful & always has been
— Waaatson (@paul_taylor1) June 6, 2017
About time, he’s been woeful since we got him.
— dave nugent (@davenugent1) June 6, 2017
Get in
— Ryan cresswell (@Ryancresswell10) June 6, 2017
About time
— glennog (@glenn2502) June 6, 2017
The Chronicle report that Colback is set to be joined by Benitez 2016 signings Daryl Murphy, Achraf Lazaar and Grant Hanley as those deemed surplus to requirements.
It is also said by the newspaper that Henri Saivet, Massadio Haidara, Emmanuel Riviere and Siem De Jong are listed for the chop.
Colback made 34 appearances across all competitions for Newcastle in the recently completed season as he helped them to a return to the Premier League.