Reap the Wild Wyn on Friday

We have come to the end of June. Fitting that the end of Fabrico Coloccini and Andros Townsend is also fact.

We the Newcastle fan base has been critical of Coloccini, and rightly so. Yet our criticism must be understood within the context of the leadership that made him a critical piece to the Newcastle defensive back four. Alan Pardew referred to him as the "Rolls-Royce" of central defenders. Steve McClaren made a significant effort to qualify the retention of Colo for the 2015/16 season as something everyone wanted, and that he would fit into McClaren's new philosophy.

Fabrico needed better talent around him, and regardless of the leadership he brought to the team his best days were behind him. There were questions about whether he still had an influence in the clubhouse. The play on the field did not represent a unified squad. Yet everything behind him, and by that I mean the coaching staff and executive leadership, failed to supply a foundation upon which to build anything that could be lead.

I will restate what I tweeted. I will not participate in any bashing of Coloccini. He bled white and black. He love the club, the city and he should be fondly remembered for his service to the shirt.

OK, let's kick the ball.

Fabricio Coloccini leaves Newcastle after eight-year spell as veteran defender finally rejoins San Lorenzo - Daily Mail

He gets to fulfill a dream. "I want to go back to San Lorenzo and fulfil the dream of entering the pitch with my kids and retire there."

Fabricio Coloccini quits Newcastle: The right move at the right time - finally - The Chronicle

A great quote from this piece.

For while he has enraged us at times with his shoddy skippering in the last two years, he has - on balance - been an important player for the last eight years. It went on too long but at times he was a joy to watch, a ball-playing centre-back who could have walked into most Premier League sides when he was at the peak of his powers.

Andros Townsend and Dwight Gayle trade places - Irish Times

This is a good two for one link. Gayle was had for around £10million, with Andros costing Palace £13million.

Scotland star Matt Ritchie completes move to Newcastle United in £10million deal - Daily Record

Another signing for around £10million, if you have concerns over Gayle's health then Ritchie is a poster child for reliability.

Dwight Gayle describes Newcastle United move as a dream come true - HITC Sport

Should Palace take offense to Gayle's love of Newcastle as a "big club"? Would you be offended if Townsend made a similar comment after his move to the South Norwood club?

Have a safe Independence Day everyone!