Newcastle reject Real Madrid's Woodgate

Newcastle United have decided against bringing Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate back to the club.
 
Toon have the first option on the injury-plagued defender should he decide to quit Spain.

Woodgate, 26, has been recovering from his thigh injury with another old club Leeds, and would relish the chance to go back to St James' Park, where he was a big hit with fans.

Since quitting Toon for Spain in August 2004 he has had a miserable time with injuries and managed only nine games last term.

A game-by-game deal has even been suggested but Newcastle are not interested, despite Woodgate being desperate to come back to his roots.