Jack Colback Announces Retirement After Distinguished Career
Former Newcastle United and Sunderland midfielder Jack Colback has announced his retirement from professional football in March 2026, bringing to a close a career spanning over a decade and culminating in an unexpected brief stint with an eighth-tier club. At 36 years old, born on October 24, 1989, Colback’s decision marks the end of a journey that saw him play at the highest level of English football before a final, short chapter in the non-league system. His retirement comes just a month after joining Anstey Nomads, an eighth-tier team competing in the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands. The news was widely reported, highlighting the unexpected trajectory of a player who once graced the Premier League.
A Career Defined by the Tyne-Wear Divide: Sunderland to Newcastle
Colback’s footballing odyssey began early, joining the Sunderland academy at the age of 10 and signing his first professional contract with the Black Cats in 2008. He quickly established himself, going on to make 115 Premier League appearances for Sunderland, cementing his place as a key figure at the Stadium of Light. However, his career took a controversial turn in June 2014 when he made a free transfer to Sunderland’s fierce local rivals, Newcastle United. This move, crossing the infamous Tyne-Wear divide, caused significant disappointment and anger among Sunderland supporters, a testament to the intense rivalry between the two clubs.
At Newcastle United, Colback continued to be a prominent figure, playing for the Magpies from 2014 to 2020 and making 93 appearances. During his time on Tyneside, he earned the affectionate nickname ‘Ginger Pirlo’ from Newcastle fans, a moniker that even garnered acknowledgment from then-England manager Roy Hodgson. His performances also caught the eye of the national team selectors, leading to a call-up to the senior England squad in August 2014. Unfortunately, an injury forced him to withdraw, and he was never capped for his country. Despite the fan adoration, Colback’s relationship with then-Newcastle manager Rafa Benítez became strained. In 2017, Benítez informed him he would no longer be involved with the first team, leading to a period of uncertainty for the midfielder.
Stints at Nottingham Forest, QPR, and the Final Chapter in Non-League
Before his permanent move away from Newcastle, Colback experienced loan spells that offered him crucial playing time. He spent time at Ipswich Town between 2009 and 2011, gaining valuable experience. Later, he returned to the Championship with a loan move to Nottingham Forest from 2018 to 2019. This loan proved successful, paving the way for a permanent switch to the City Ground in August 2020. At Nottingham Forest, Colback became an integral part of their success, playing a pivotal role in their promotion-winning campaign back to the Premier League.
His contributions were highly valued, particularly by former Forest Head Coach Steve Cooper. Cooper lauded Colback, stating, “Jack has been more than a player to me… When I think about Jack’s contribution, it was huge, especially with some of the goals that he scored… He’s a real man.”. Following his tenure at Forest, Colback joined Queens Park Rangers on a two-year deal on August 1, 2023. His time at QPR was relatively brief, as he was released by the club in September 2025. This led to his final, unexpected chapter: a move to eighth-tier Anstey Nomads in February 2026, just a month before his retirement announcement.
Career Statistics and Legacy
Jack Colback’s career statistics paint a picture of a consistent, hardworking midfielder who amassed significant experience across the top tiers of English football. With 115 Premier League appearances for Sunderland and 93 for Newcastle United, he consistently operated at the highest level. His later career saw him contribute significantly to Nottingham Forest’s resurgence, culminating in their return to the Premier League. From a promising academy talent to a Premier League regular and then a key figure in a promotion-winning side, Colback’s journey was marked by adaptability and commitment. Despite the controversial nature of his move between two bitter rivals, and the unfulfilled England cap, Colback leaves behind a legacy as a dedicated professional who was, at his best, a vital cog in the midfield of several prominent English clubs. His career concluded abruptly, yet it featured moments of high achievement and strong personal connections, particularly evident in Steve Cooper’s heartfelt tribute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was Jack Colback’s final club before retirement?
A: Jack Colback’s final club was Anstey Nomads, an eighth-tier team in the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands, which he joined in February 2026.
Q: Which Premier League clubs did Jack Colback play for?
A: Jack Colback played for Sunderland and Newcastle United in the Premier League, making 115 appearances for Sunderland and 93 for Newcastle. He also played a crucial role in Nottingham Forest’s promotion to the Premier League.
Q: Why was Jack Colback nicknamed the ‘Ginger Pirlo’?
A: Jack Colback was nicknamed the ‘Ginger Pirlo’ by Newcastle United fans due to his playing style, which some felt resembled that of the Italian midfielder Andrea Pirlo.
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