Oh Danny bye

A shame to see Danny Guthrie go, especially when the club would have preferred to retain him. It seems a mutually acceptable deal just couldn't be struck, so the former Bolton man has been released. A bit-part player for most of his Toon career, Guthrie nevertheless usually gave his all and certainly did himself justice when called upon during the last campaign, particularly when Mr T was away in Africa. Securing back-up (or competition) for the Ivory Coast enforcer and Dreamboat in the centre of our midfield is now even more imperative.

Also departing St James' Park are Alan Smith, Tamas Kadar, Ryan Donaldson and Peter Lovenkrands (the latter for the second time), plus a clutch of youngsters who never troubled the first-team squad.

Possible incomings include Coventry midfielder Gael Bigirimana. The 18-year-old - last season's Championship Apprentice of the Year - plays in the same position as Mr T and even has the same haircut. An astute signing, it would seem, but surely not lined up as a direct replacement should Mr T be poached by one of our rivals?