Matt Ritchie gave an interview to TalkSport and his comments were somewhat controversial, which appear to have split Newcastle fans, adding to the growing unease among supporters.
Some of his more contentious comments involved him saying he does not understand the level of unrest from fans, that Mike Ashley has been honest and up front, and that fans should have realism in their expectations.
He also called for fans to unite behind the team ahead of the season, claiming “we have to all be in this together”.
But it is his Ashley comments that have, naturally, caused the biggest stir, with social media lighting up in response to his claims.
In his defence, as an employee of the under-fire owner, he cannot speak out against him, and whether they are his genuine feelings, or not, he has an obligation to put on a united front in public.
Some fans question why he did not simply refuse to do the interview at all – but it is not that easy, as he may have been nominated by the club for the media duties yesterday – which was a media day at the club – and he would not be in a position to decline.
Matt Ritchie’s comments have received mixed reactions
He could, of course, have been a little more diplomatic in what he said, but it has certainly prompted a reaction from fans, with some sympathising with his position as an employee of the club, while others actually agree with his stance.
But many will not forgive him, now seeing him as another mouthpiece for Ashley, and – in their eyes – the latest recruit to the high street mogul’s public relations campaign, in the ongoing battle between owner and fans.
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