I left Newcastle United to join Leeds United in 2017 – I’m now a rap star and free agent
One former Newcastle United and Leeds United midfielder remains a free agent after leaving a Saudi Arabian second division side this summer.
Back in 2012, Newcastle United secured qualification for the Europa League after coming 5th in the Premier League – their highest finish for eight years. However, despite the demands of European football to come, the Magpies failed to utilise the transfer market and signed just one person to strengthen Alan Pardew’s squad.
Vurnon Anita was the club’s only signing that summer as he joined from Ajax for £6.2m. Anita initially joined as a midfielder, but ended up being a utility player and was deployed in numerous positions during his time on Tyneside.
His versatility was a major bonus for the Magpies and something that caught the attention of Rafa Benitez. “He is doing really well.” Benitez said of Anita during his first few months as Magpies boss. “We knew before that he’s a player you can trust.
“We played him at left-back and he’s clever and can adapt well. On the right side he’s even better because he can push forward and cross well too. I am really pleased because some players are adapting themselves well to the circumstances and the team.”
