Bournemouth manager Jason Tindall was left ‘disappointed’ after failing to lure Newcastle United winger Matt Ritchie back to the Vitality Stadium, as reported by the Daily Echo.
With the Cherries in danger of slipping out of the play-off places after three successive Championship defeats, transfer deadline day felt like the ideal opportunity to add some depth and quality to a squad that is struggling to make good on its potential.
But, while Josh King departed for Everton, Bournemouth failed to replace their Norway international on Monday night.
Newcastle eventually decided against cashing in on one of their most experienced and reliable performers midway through a gruelling campaign.
“I can’t sit here and say I’m not disappointed. Matt Ritchie’s a player that did extremely well for us during his time here at the football club,” Tindall said of the Scotland international, whose 15 goals and 17 assists fired Bournemouth to the second-tier title in 2015.
“He’s been a fantastic player for Newcastle and is a player I know would have done so well for us.
“Unfortunately, (the deal) has not got over the line. We’ve got to respect Newcastle for that decision and wish Matty the best for the remainder of the season whilst he’s there. But I can’t sit here and say I’m not disappointed.”
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce admitted recently that Ritchie is growing ‘frustrated’ about his lack of game time this season, having started just six Premier League matches in 2020/21 (Chronicle).
But, after Bournemouth failed to agree a fee with the Magpies, the former Portsmouth youngster is destined to spend the next few months trying to force his way back into Bruce’s XI.
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