According to the Mirror, Matt Ritchie wants to leave Newcastle this summer and return to Bournemouth.
The 31-year-old had an interesting season at St James’ Park to say the least.
Ritchie started the campaign out of the starting XI, spending his days sat on the bench.
Then there was talk of a departure, with Ritchie reportedly set for a return to Bournemouth in January.
However, manager Steve Bruce blocked the deal.
In the end, Ritchie stayed, but there were more twists and turns on the horizon.
It was reported by the Daily Mail back in March that Ritchie had been involved in a bust-up with Bruce, branding the boss a ‘coward’.
This was in the aftermath of the 1-1 draw with Wolves, where Bruce blamed Ritchie for the dropped points in his post-match interview.
One month later and Ritchie was back in the starting XI.
He returned to the side on April 4th, starting as left wing-back versus Tottenham.
Ritchie played brilliantly, and was a key factor in both goals. After that, he started every game.
At one point in time, it looked like Newcastle were going down. But Ritchie’s return to the starting XI coincided with a resurgence from the Magpies.
But could his Newcastle career be over?
Loyal servant Matt Ritchie should be granted Newcastle departure
Ritchie signed a new contract last year, keeping him at the club until 2023.
However, according to the Mirror, Ritchie wants to return to the south coast because of family matters.
They report that he is ‘anxious’ to sign for Bournemouth, after being disappointed when his January move fell through.
While his exit would be a real blow, Newcastle should grant Ritchie his wish.
The midfielder has been a wonderful servant to the club since joining in 2016.
He arrived from the Cherries for £10million – one of Rafa Benitez’s most expensive signings ahead of the Championship campaign.
He was an inspired addition though, scoring 12 goals and providing eight assists on route to promotion.
Ritchie has been just as important in the Premier League, but in a different way. We’ve often relied on his exceptional attitude and determination, particularly during Benitez’s tenure. However, he sometimes struggled in possession due to his lack of pace.
The Spaniard then revitalised Ritchie in 2018, turning him into a left wing-back. The role gave Ritchie a new lease of life at St James’ – and Bruce has certainly felt the benefit of that this season.
At 31, this might be Ritchie’s last chance to get a move back to Bournemouth. And if he wants to go back because of his family, then the club should respect his wish.
Throughout his Magpies career, you’ve never been able to doubt his commitment to the club. His desire and attitude have been exemplary.
Now it’s time we reward his commitment by allowing him to return to Bournemouth. It will be a blow for fans, but it’s the right thing to do.
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