Matt Ritchie has now spoken out about his future after Newcastle United extended his contract until 2024.
The midfielder looked set to leave the club this summer, with his contract at St James’ Park expiring.
Eddie Howe made it clear that he wanted Ritchie to stay, but it was far from certain what the player wanted. While he is highly valued on Tyneside, his minutes have severely diminished.
That felt like it would lead to a move away, so there was a sense of surprise when Newcastle announced they had triggered a one-year extension clause in his contract.
However, there was more confusion on the horizon when it was reported that Ritchie could still leave the club this summer. That felt farfetched, and now the 33-year-old has explained why he has decided to stay in the North East.
‘Valued’ Matt Ritchie ‘excited’ about his Newcastle future
Following the 3-2 win over Gateshead on Saturday in which Ritchie started for Newcastle, the Toon number 11 spoke to the Chronicle. He explained why his Newcastle career is set to continue.
“Yeah of course (I could have left the club),” he said.
“I think everyone knows the situation that I found myself in, I was coming to the end of my contract.
“I had a year option which was then in the club’s hands. But the manager and the football club made me feel that I was valued and that I have a role to play and I am excited about that.
“I never expected to stay for eight seasons but I am thoroughly enjoying my time here. It is an amazing place to be at the moment and hopefully I can be part of something special this season.”
Important member of Eddie Howe’s squad
While he barely featured last season, Ritchie was the Magpies’ unsung hero in the eyes of a lot of players. The likes of Anthony Gordon and Bruno Guimaraes were full of praise for the veteran winger.
You have to imagine that the £12million man’s minutes will diminish even further this season, with Newcastle set to compete in the Champions League.
But Ritchie is a key cog behind the scenes and in the dressing room, and his absence likely would have been felt if he had left the club this summer.
He is clearly looking forward to next season, and knows what to expect after speaking to Howe about his role at St James’ Park.
We might not see much of him on the pitch, but his presence will certainly be felt.
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