Two former Newcastle United defenders and popular figures at St James’ Park remain without clubs after injury problems played a major role in their departures.
Emil Krafth and Jamaal Lascelles both officially left Newcastle this year, but neither defender has secured a new permanent destination.
Lascelles briefly joined Leicester City in February on a short-term deal, but his time at the club ended when the 2025/26 season concluded. Leicester were relegated to League One, and the experienced centre-back was subsequently released.
The 32-year-old did not agree to reduce his wages when he moved to Leicester and was reportedly one of the better-paid players in the Championship. However, he was unable to make a major impact, featuring only nine times for the Foxes in the first team.
Lascelles had spent 12 years with Newcastle and became a highly respected figure among supporters. His opportunities became increasingly limited after suffering an ACL injury in March 2024, with that appearance ultimately proving to be his final competitive start for the club.
Despite his struggles with fitness, Lascelles leaves Newcastle with an impressive record. He made 177 Premier League appearances for the Magpies, captained the club during their return to the Champions League and was part of the team that lifted the Carabao Cup alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier last year.
At 32, Lascelles could still have several years left in his playing career, although his serious ACL injury and subsequent fitness difficulties appear to have made opportunities at the highest level harder to find. He was reportedly linked with Championship club Watford towards the end of the summer transfer window.
Emil Krafth
Krafth is another former Newcastle defender whose final years at the club were heavily affected by injuries.
The Swedish right-back suffered an ACL injury in August 2022 and subsequently found it difficult to establish himself as a regular first-team player. The development of Kieran Trippier and Tino Livramento further reduced his opportunities, leaving Krafth largely competing for substitute appearances.
His injury problems continued last season. Krafth made only three appearances in all competitions before suffering another serious knee injury in November, bringing his campaign to an early end.
The injury also prevented him from competing for a place in Sweden’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
According to NewcastleWorld, Krafth’s latest injury has been an important factor in his struggle to find a new club since becoming a free agent. The defender had previously been linked with a potential return to Sweden.
During their final period at Newcastle, the club reportedly viewed the situation surrounding experienced players who were earning substantial wages while struggling for regular football as an issue, particularly amid tighter financial regulations in football. Both Lascelles and Krafth eventually departed St James’ Park without Newcastle receiving a transfer fee.
Another former Newcastle player still searching for a club is goalkeeper Max Thompson.
The 22-year-old was released by Newcastle during the summer after spending the second half of last season on loan with Scottish side Ayr United. Thompson has also previously had loan spells with Chesterfield and Northampton Town and is now looking for the next step in his career.