Newcastle United spent heavily last summer, including the signing of Matt Ritchie.
Matt Ritchie scores for Newcastle United
Magpies star Matt Ritchie has been in fine form of late, and two of his teammates raved about the Scottish international’s ability to win games on his own, when speaking to the Shields Gazette.
The 27-year-old moved to St James’ Park from Bournemouth in the summer of 2016, for a fee believed to be in the region of £12 million, and has since established himself as one of Rafa Benitez’ most important players, chipping in with 15 goals and seven assists in 44 appearances in all competitions so far this term.
Newcastle currently sit at the top of the Championship table, with a one point lead over second placed Brighton and Hove Albion, and look to be in a great position from which to achieve promotion back to the Premier League.
Christian Atsu and Dwight Gayle believe much of their success this season can be put down to Ritchie’s fine form.
The 26-year-old English striker told the Shields Gazette:
“It is not just his ability, he is a great character. He is a great experienced player. He has done this before, he knows what it takes. He is non-stop with his talking to us, telling the boys what needs to be done. He tells the whole team when to press and when to hold. As well as that he is a great lad. And then there is his goals.”
Newcastle United’s Dwight Gayle celebrates
Whilst the 25-year-old Ghana international highlighted the Scot’s ability to carry the team on his own:
“He is a great player. He has good finishing – he can finish with the right or the left. I am also happy to play in the same team as him. It makes life much easier for the other players – he can win games on his own for us.”
With just six games remaining in their season, Newcastle will need Ritchie to be at his very best, if they are to wrap up automatic promotion over the next few weeks.
Matt Ritchie celebrates after scoring for Newcastle United
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