The former prodigy will likely depart Newcastle United this summer.
Go in your time machine back to 2009. Newcastle United pulled off a massive signing, inking Haris Vuckic to a contract. The 16 year old was a target of massive European clubs, including a rumored trial with AC Milan.
If you’re new to Toon Army and supporting Newcastle, you’re probably thinking “Wow, how have I not heard of this guy?!” Well, it’s because he went from wonder kid to less than average adult. He last played for Newcastle’s first team in 2011. Since then, he’s had injuries, and lackluster loans with five clubs. His loan this year was with League One side Bradford City, where he scored one goal in 10 appearances.
2016-17 stats: 10 appearances, 1 goal, and one assist on loan with Bradford City
Player Breakdown: Vuckic is now 24 years old, and has never come close to the promise he showed as a teenager. He’s a tall, athletic attacker, but hasn’t been consistent over his career in any way. He’s also battled injuries.
Next: Contract Decision: Vurnon Anita
Decision: Let him go. Sometimes the instinct is, “We’ve had him this long, might as well keep him.” There’s no point in that at this point. He takes up a roster spot, and hasn’t been within a mile of his projected skill. Maybe he’ll go somewhere and it will suddenly click, but it won’t be at Newcastle United.