Sylvain Marveaux and Gabriel Obertan paid up by Newcastle

The well-paid midfield pair have not featured under Rafa Benitez.

Benitez is attempting to keep the relegation-threatened club in the Premier League.

But he didn't feel the injury-hit duo would be needed in the final two games of the season.

And Newcastle have reached a "settlement" with Marveaux and Obertan, who have left by "mutual consent".

A club statement read: "Newcastle United can confirm that Gabriel Obertan and Sylvain Marveaux have left St James's Park by mutual consent.

"The contracts of the French pair were due to expire this summer, but with them almost certainly not going to feature in the Magpies' remaining games of the 2015/16 season, a settlement was agreed earlier this week, allowing them to find new clubs.

"Obertan, 27, joined Newcastle from Manchester United in August 2011.

"The winger made 77 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals, but has not featured for the first team since last September.

"Marveaux, 30, also arrived on Tyneside in the summer of 2011, from French side Rennes.

"However, he has spent large periods of his time at the club sidelined by injury and made just 57 appearances in nearly five years, scoring twice. The midfielder spent the 2014/15 campaign on loan at Guingamp and last played for United in March 2014.

"Everyone at Newcastle United wishes Gabriel and Sylvain the very best for the future."