Jonas Gutierrez scores first goal since beating testicular cancer but admits he could have played 'last game' for Newcastle

Argentinian scored the crucial second goal to help Toon stay in the top flight

(GETTY IMAGES)

Newcastle hero Jonas Gutierrez has admitted that he could have played his "last game" at St James' Park after helping the club stay in the Premier League.

The midfielder, 31, is out of contract in July but didn't start enough games this season to trigger a clause in his contract that would give him an automatic contract extension.

On the final day of the season, Gutierrez was excellent against West Ham, eventually scoring the decisive second goal that eased nerves around St James' Park.

It was his first goal for the club since February 2013, long before he was diagnosed, battled and eventually beat testicular cancer.

Gutierrez scores his first goal since February 2013 (GETTY IMAGES)

After being 'mistreated' by former Newcastle boss Alan Pardew, Gutierrez has been brought back into the fold by John Carver and responded with that crucial goal.

"I know this could be my last game at St James’s Park," he said after the game.

"Since I have recovered from my illness, I have always said the same thing. I want to help the team and work hard. I’ve been improving all the weeks since I arrived.

"I feel stronger and feel I can play 90 minutes. Two months ago, I didn’t know I was going to be able to (play)."

Gutierrez pictured running a marathon whilst he was going through chemotherapy

Gutierrez was diagnosed with testicular cancer after feeling pain following a tackle from then-Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna at the end of last season prompted him to get a scan.

But now fully recovered, fans' favourite Gutierrez says that Newcastle have not been good enough this season.

"I feel strong. I think the same – help the team. Most of all, we have to do it for the fans and the city, because they don’t deserve to be in this situation. We are the players, and we have to take responsibility.

"It’s always our responsibility. We are the players that are on the pitch. We have to do it for the fans and the city.

"This is not a good thing for Newcastle United. This can’t happen – Newcastle can’t wait until the last week to see if we stay up or not in the Premier League."