I requested to leave Newcastle United after 202 appearances, and Eddie Howe claimed ‘he couldn’t let me go.

Eddie Howe stated that he was unable to release me after I had made 202 appearances for Newcastle United.

Shelvey acknowledged that he was compelled to negotiate with Newcastle United and head coach Eddie Howe in order to be granted permission to depart the club in 2023.

Newcastle’s 2016-17 Championship-winning season and the club’s effective turnaround to avoid relegation

following the PIF-led takeover during the 2021-22 campaign were significantly influenced by Shelvey’s seven-year tenure on Tyneside, during which he made over 200 appearances. Shelvey’s free-kick winner at Leeds United is cited by Howe as a “turning point” in Newcastle’s efforts to evade relegation.

Shelvey was initially scheduled to commence the 2022-23 season in the midfield alongside Bruno Guimaraes.

However, he sustained a severe hamstring injury during the preseason against Benfica, which severely limited his time at Newcastle. He only appeared in five matches for the club before departing in January to join Nottingham Forest.

During the Carabao Cup semi-final victory over Southampton, the Newcastle supporters gave Shelvey an emotional farewell at St James’ Park. The midfielder played only eight games for Forest before relocating to Turkey.

He stated to The Guardian, “It was difficult to depart, but I cannot say that I regret my decision.” “I am pleased with Newcastle’s actions.” “Initially, Eddie stated that he was unable to release me; however, I eventually begged him to do so.”

He stated that he would consider the matter, but he later stated that he would only allow me to leave if they were able to secure a booking.I expressed my desire to depart in order to establish a new beginning and effectively communicate my views.

The following day, he retrieved me, we engaged in a brief conversation, and he granted my request. Eddie declared that he would not obstruct my happiness.

In January, Newcastle failed to secure a successor for Shelvey; however, they went on to secure fourth place and qualify for the Champions League. Howe was able to strengthen his midfield by signing Sandro Tonali from AC Milan during the offseason.