The winger joined the Magpies from Premier League side Bournemouth this summer.
Newcastle’s Matt Ritchie and Isaac Hayden with referee Simon Hooper
Quoted by the Chronicle, Newcastle United coach Ian Cathro has hailed Matt Ritchie for dropping down from the Premier League into the Championship.
The winger was one of Rafa Benitez’s first signings this summer in what was a busy transfer window for the Magpies.
His move surprised some, especially as he was giving up Premier League football with Bournemouth to make the move to St. James’ Park.
Newcastle’s Matt Ritchie scores their second goal from the penalty spot
And Cathro has shared his delight at his compatriot joining him at the club, saying he is very respectful of Ritchie for making that decision to try and help Newcastle back to their former glory.
“Matt is strong minded, very clear in what he wants to achieve and he is an ambitious guy,” the Chronicle quotes him saying.
“He truly saw the potential of this club, the potential of the moment we are in. It takes a very strong man to make that choice and I am very respectful of Matt for that.”
Newcastle United’s Matt Ritchie in action with Bristol City’s Bobby Reid.
The move to Newcastle was certainly a brave one for Ritchie to make, but arguably one that many would have opted for.
There is no denying the Magpies are a bigger club than Bournemouth and that chance to move to a bigger team may not have come along again for the Scotland international.
With them also looking likely they are on an upward trajectory under Benitez too, it is likely to look like a very smart choice before too long.
Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey celebrates with Matt Ritchie after the final whistle
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