Eddie Howe believes Matt Ritchie has a ‘big part to play’ at Newcastle United this season.
The 32-year-old has been on the bench in recent weeks, but hasn’t played for the Magpies since the humiliating FA Cup defeat to Cambridge United.
His last Premier League appearance was on December 19th – the 4-0 home defeat to Manchester City.
Ritchie has been absent in 2022 with a knee injury, but returned to the squad for the 2-1 win over Southampton. He’s been a substitute ever since, but is yet to make it off the bench.
With eight games to go, the former Bournemouth man will be hoping to feature, and Howe was asked about the player in his pre-match press conference.
Eddie Howe believes Matt Ritchie is ‘in a much better place now’
“Big role,” Howe said when asked about the role Matt Ritchie could have between now and the end of the season.
“Had quite a serious knee injury, recently came back, had minimal training time, so he was probably put on the bench before he was ready to be. But due to numbers that opportunity was given to him.
“But I think now we’ve gone away, had an intense period of training with him, I think he’s in a much better place physically.
“He’s a player that I trust, I admire, I really like and he’s got a big part to play on and off the pitch because he is a really big voice in the dressing room.”
Important character
While Howe may believe Ritchie has an important role to play between now and the end of the season, it’s hard to see where he fits into the team.
In the past he was a winger, but he no longer has the pace required. His delivery is still good though, which could perhaps get more out of the struggling Chris Wood.
Ritchie has previously played at left-back this season, but a return there seems unlikely. Matt Targett is doing brilliantly in that position, while Paul Dummett is also in reserve.
With his ability to play on either flank and in defence, he’s a valuable option to have on the bench. However, it would be a real surprise to see him return to the starting XI.
It feels like Ritchie’s role may come off the pitch. He’s always been a leader at St James’ Park ever since his 2016 arrival.
His influence on the pitch has waned, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be important off it.
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