Matt Ritchie is back in Newcastle United training ahead of the rearranged clash with Southampton tomorrow night.
Ritchie is yet to play a Premier League game in 2022 but is closing in on a return according to the club’s official website.
His last outing was as captain in the 1-0 FA Cup defeat to Cambridge but the momentum of the club has completely changed since then.
He has not played since the run of five wins in six matches began but it is looking like he could play a part at St Mary’s.
With Matt Targett having nailed down the left-back slot, Ritchie could well get a chance to play further forward in midfield.
That is the role he was brought in to play, but he has ended up being shunted around because of underinvestment in other areas of the squad.
Ritchie was hailed by no less than Pep Guardiola nine months ago, for his set piece delivery, and that could be another plus with Kieran Trippier out.
He of course worked with Eddie Howe at Bournemouth and will be looking to emulate Ryan Fraser, by going to a new level after reuniting with his old manager.
The most important thing is that Newcastle keep the momentum going and we have had a look at how Howe would line his side up if Ralph Hasenhuttl had his way over squad building…
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