Michael Spellman leaves Newport after rejecting new deal following player of the season award | OneFootball

Michael Spellman has left Newport County after rejecting a new contract, departing despite being the supporters’ player of the season.

The club said in a statement that, following talks over fresh terms, Spellman had chosen to move on.

The 23-year-old scored five goals in 2025-26 as Newport narrowly avoided relegation to the National League on the final day.

His exit is another setback for the Exiles, who have also lost winger Bobby Kamwa and captain Matt Baker this summer.

Spellman joined in July 2024 after his Sunderland release, signing a two-year deal and scoring seven times across his two seasons.

He had spent two years on Wearside after a trial in March 2022 led to a permanent move that summer. He made one EFL Cup appearance and gained experience on loan at Whitby Town and Blyth Spartans.

Earlier, he impressed for Park View Academy and Chester-le-Street United, scoring 19 in 23 in all competitions, including 14 in 16 in the Wearside League. A 2021 trial with Livingston did not result in a contract.

Source: Sunderland Echo