Emotional day as United players report for training

NEWCASTLE United have began their preparations for the 2025/26 season after arriving back at Benton for early summer testing of preseason - but it proved to be an emotional day at the Magpies' HQ.

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For many of them, it was discovered for the first time that dressing room leader Callum Wilson has now left the building. The club announced the news to the public days after Wilson turned down the chance of an incentivised offer of a contract for next-term.

Here's a roundup of notes from day one of preseason training.

Two new vacancies at United

The departure of Wilson leaves the No 9 shirt free again. And the dressing room leadership group is also a man down.

It remains to be seen who steps up but 12 months ago, the exit of Matt Ritchie resulted in Jacob Murphy taking his place.

There are a few candidates and early contenders may include Joelinton or Sandro Tonali.