Midfielder for Newcastle United returns from injury and discusses his transfer ‘options’
The midfielder for Newcastle United is reviving his career away from St. James’ Park.
Isaac Hayden is having a good time with Belgian club Standard Liege and is hopeful that his injury issues are finally behind him.
The 28-year-old played just 14 times during his loan season at Norwich City last year due to persistent knee issues. The Canaries were required to purchase Hayden if they returned to the Premier League, but they fell far short by failing to get past the Championship play-offs.
Hayden trained apart from Eddie Howe’s first team over the summer, but during the final week of the summer transfer window, deals with Championship sides Sheffield Wednesday and Premier League newcomers Luton Town fell through.
The former Arsenal midfielder received a lifeline from Standard Liege, and he has started the last four games, including the 2-1 victory over Club Brugge.
Prior to that game, Hayden informed Walfoot that Standard is a superb club with amazing supporters. “Their method of assistance is amazing. Even though we played well in each of the three games, eight goals after nine games is still insufficient. I’m pleased with my start, but we can do better.
Hayden acknowledged that he had “options” to stay in England, but he desired a different challenge.
As he became older, he said, “I had alternatives in England, but I wanted to try something different. It was the appropriate time for me to try a new championship, a new challenge, as I will be 29 at the end of the current season.
“With no offense intended for the Championship, I believe that, at my best, I am better than that. I’ve played for three of the top teams in the division, I know what I’m capable of when I’m healthy, and I preferred to switch leagues to maintain my level of performance.
“I was playing in every game for Newcastle when I got hurt and couldn’t continue.” In football, events can happen very quickly. I’m only concerned with Standard, and we’ll see whether I ever want to go back to England.
Rafa Benitez brought in Hayden, who helped Newcastle win the Championship in his debut year.
He has played for the club a total of 171 times, however his final game came in December 2021 as he was dropped off the 25-man roster for the 2021–22 season.
Up until 2026, he is still bound to St. James’ Park.
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