Newcastle United had just defeated Burnley to finish in 11th place, but it was a final day victory tinged with sadness for some of these players as it may be the last time they share a dressing room together. Even Eddie Howe, who is always so measured, admitted the traditional end of season address was 'quite an emotional moment' on Sunday.
It is easy to see why. New players will arrive this summer, and in the years to come, but the contribution the club's stalwarts have made will never be forgotten.
Not only did several members of this group help take Newcastle back to the Premier League, in 2017, but they also helped keep the Magpies in the top-flight when their backs were against the wall. It is not an exaggeration to say that had they not done that, an already protracted takeover might have been even more complicated - and that really is saying something.
