The former Everton and Arsenal man has played a big part in helping transform the club's fortunes during a guest stint and was keen to extend his stay.

However, it looks increasingly likely that he will be exiting EnergyAustralia Stadium early in 2011.

‘‘They are saying they want to keep me but the chat I had with the club today was disheartening,’’ Jeffers told the Newcastle Herald.

‘‘I can’t accept a deal until the end of this season with nothing for next season.

‘‘From what was said today, the club is not in a position to offer me a deal and by the looks of things, I’ll be going back to England.

‘‘My flight is booked for January 5 and I’ll be going then.’’

Newcastle's executive chairman Ken Edwards said the club wasn't in a position to offer a deal for next season as it wasn't sure what the FFA position with regard to next year's salary cap.