Championship club issue farewell to midfielder ahead of Newcastle United summer move

Queens Park Rangers have thanked Isaac Hayden for playing a “key role” in their successful bid to retain their Championship status.

The Newcastle United midfielder joined QPR in January after spending the first-half of the campaign on loan at Belgian club Standard Liege. Hayden went on to make 17 appearances as the West London outfit moved out of the relegation zone to finish 18th in the table.

“BIG thanks to our two loanees,” QPR posted on social media. “@IsaacHayden65 and Joe Hodge return to their parent clubs with our best wishes. Both played a key role in our survival.”

Hayden could yet to return to Loftus Road. Newcastle will look to offload the midfielder again this summer after he was deemed surplus to requirements by Eddie Howe two years ago.

The 29-year-old last played for the Magpies in December 2021 and trained alone last pre-season after returning from a loan spell at Norwich City.

Reflecting on his QPR loan, Hayden - who has already expressed an interest in joining permanently - said: Where to start, from joining on Feb 1st in the relegation zone to ending the season today with a 3rd victory in a row and securing safety last weekend officially with a game to spare. It has been a pleasure to play for this club.

“I want to firstly thank the owners, Christian and the manager for giving me the opportunity, the set of lads I have shared a dressing room with have been amazing and top class, the back room staff who have sacrificed a lot and given so much to help us and the fans for their unwavering support of the team and myself personally since I’ve joined.

“It is a time I will always remember and hold onto very fondly. Who knows what the future may bring but it’s been an honour and I’m sure this club is going one way and that’s up. Forever a ranger 💙🤍 u rrrsssss”

Hayden was signed by Rafa Benitez in 2016 from Arsenal and in his debut season helped Newcastle win the Championship title. He has made 171 appearances in total and has two years remaining on his contract.