After 171 games and two goals, Mike Williamson’s Newcastle career looks to be over

Mike Williamson is set for a January exit at Newcastle United – after joining Wolverhampton Wanderers on a short-term loan.
Mike WilliamsonMike Williamson
Mike Williamson

The long-serving defender yesterday signed for the Championship club on a one-month deal.

Williamson is not in Steve McClaren’s plans at St James’s Park.

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And the 31-year-old – who is out of contract at United next summer – has revealed that the short-term move is with a view to a longer-term deal.

If the loan is successful, Wolves could attempt to make it permanent in the January transfer window.

Asked about the thinking behind the loan, Williamson said: “Initially short term, but speaking to the manager, it’s with a view for longer.

“As long as I can come here and prove myself, and the club are happy, something can be done.

“It’s somewhere I’d be happy to play in the future.”

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Wolves moved for Williamson – who will make his debut in tomorrow’s West Midlands derby against Birmingham City at St Andrews – amid an injury crisis at Molineux.

For his part, Williamson is just looking forward to playing regular football, having made just two Capital One Cup appearances for Newcastle so far this season.

“It’s a great club and a great opportunity to come and play some games and impress and see if I can add something to the club,” said Williamson, who has made 171 appearances for Newcastle since arriving in January 2010.

“I haven’t worked with the manager, but I’ve heard many good things about him, and I was eager to get down here and get started.

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“It’s about playing games, proving yourself and pushing forward for the future.

“It’s a massive club. Everyone from afar can see what a special club it is. It’s a big club and a great fanbase. I’m very excited to be here.

“It’s an opportunity for me to play some first-team football and push on.

“He (Jackett) just explained he thinks it’s a great opportunity for myself and the club, and that it’s a great fit with the experience I’ve got.

“I’m hoping to take the opportunity and push forward.

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“It’s very exciting for me. I enjoy trying to prove myself and play under pressure.”

Williamson is the oldest player on Wolves’ playing staff.

He added: “If I can bring a bit of knowledge and experience to the group, that’ll be great.”