Magpies release veteran pair

Newcastle have confirmed that Sol Campbell and Shefki Kuqi have left the club.

The 36-year-old former England defender and the 34-year-old one-time Finland striker have not been offered new deals after their respective short spells at St James' Park.

A spokesman said: "Newcastle United can confirm that Shefki Kuqi and Sol Campbell have left the club. The pair are on contracts which expire this summer, and both players are free to find new clubs.

"Everyone at Newcastle thanks Shefki and Sol for their efforts while at St James' Park and wishes them the very best for the future."

Campbell, who started in pre-season training later than the rest of the squad after returning from his honeymoon, managed only eight appearances - three of them from the bench.

His last came as a starter in the 4-0 Barclays Premier League defeat at Stoke on March 19, and he last made the matchday 18 as an unused substitute a fortnight later for the 4-1 victory over Wolves.

Only three of his appearances came under current boss Alan Pardew, including the new manager's opening game - a 3-1 victory over Liverpool.