Newcastle cut Marcelino losses
Friday, January 10, 2003
Article summary
Newcastle United FC have parted company with Spanish defender Marcelino by mutual consent.
Article body
Newcastle United FC have parted company with Spanish defender Marcelino by mutual consent, the club announced on Friday.
'Mutual agreement'
It is understood that the former RCD Mallorca centre-back, signed by Dutch manager Ruud Gullit for around €7.5m in July 1999, has had the final five months of his contract paid up by the Premiership club. "Marcelino has left the club today by mutual agreement and we wish him all the best," said a club spokesman.
Surplus to requirements
The 31-year-old - full name Marcelino Elena Sierra - made just 19 starts during his time at the club, with his last appearance coming in a 2-0 Premiership defeat at Charlton Athletic FC on 11 February 2001. He has since become surplus to requirements at Saint James' Park, despite manager Sir Bobby Robson's search for defensive cover during the winter transfer window.