Carr out as Keegan starts Newcastle clear-out

Kevin Keegan started his Newcastle clear-out on Tuesday as Stephen Carr, Peter Ramage and Australian youngster James Troisi were told they are free to leave the Premier League club.

Keegan wants to overhaul his squad after Newcastle once again underachieved this season and Republic of Ireland right-back Carr is the first high-profile casualty.

The former Tottenham star is joined at the St James' Park exit door by centre-back Ramage, who is leaving in search of regular first-team football and Troisi, who will play for Australia at the Olympics later this year.

“We wanted to keep Ramage, but he wants to play regular football, and I couldn't guarantee that here,” Keegan told Newcastle's website.

“He goes with our best wishes, as does Stephen Carr, who's been a great pro for this club. He wasn't offered a contract and I explained the reasons why.

“James Troisi has also gone. He has gone to play for Australia in the Olympics, but he has not been offered a contract.”