Jetro Willems issues heartfelt message to Newcastle United fans

The Eintracht Frankfurt defender had a season-long loan spell at St James’s Park cut short by what Steve Bruce labelled at the time as a “horrendous” injury in January.

Willems – who needed surgery on his knee – is undergoing rehabilitation in his native Holland ahead of next season.

And the 26-year-old messaged Newcastle fans on Twitter on the day his loan at the club expired.

“I want to thank everyone at @NUFC,” Willems tweeted. “You made me feel at home and supported me throughout the whole season. I really appreciate that, and I wish you all luck, success and health. I’m now going to see what the future holds, but I want you to know that you have a special place in my heart.”