Newcastle star departing after nine years takes to social media for the first time since his release

Following his release from Newcastle United, 21-year-old Lucas De Bolle has taken to social media for the first time since the announcement.

He is one of a number of long-term youth players who are leaving the club this summer.

The 21-year-old failed to make a professional first-team appearance despite being at the club since 2015.

He featured regularly for the Magpies Under-21s side this season, making eight appearances in the Premier League 2, and two appearances in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy.

An emotional statement from Lucas De Bolle

Taking to Instagram, De Bolle said: "After 9 years my time at Newcastle has come to an end. Since joining the club in 2015 I’ve had so many great memories representing the club.

Wanted to thank all the staff, players and fans that have helped and supported me throughout my journey.

De Bolle made the bench for Newcastle's 2-0 defeat away to Borussia Dortmund in November and came off the bench twice in the Magpies post-season games in Australia.

De Bolle joins several others leaving the club this summer.

Earlier this month, the club announced the departure of many other long-term Newcastle players including Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie.

Youth players leaving the club at the end of June are Amadou Diallo, Michael Ndiweni, Will Brown, Jude Smith, Jordan Hackett, Matthew Bondswell, Lucas De Bolle, Kyle Crossley, Dylan Stephenson, Shaun Mavididi and Rodrigo Vilca.

Under-18s pair Taylor Ross and Carter Milmore will also be leaving.

Players such as Jamie Miley, James Huntley and Ellis Stanton were offered new deals at the club.