Matt Ritchie has confirmed he’s in talks with Newcastle United over a new contract and is desperate to stay at St James’ Park.
Ritchie’s future was a talking point earlier this year when reports claimed Rafa Benitez had told him he was free to leave the club – although the Newcastle boss strongly refuted those claims. Last week he was linked with Stoke City, who wanted to sign him in the previous summer.
But he has had a superb season at St James’ Park in a left wing-back role and most fans would be delighted to see him re-sign in the close season.
Speaking after the final game of the season at Fulham, Ritchie confirmed that he is keen to stay and that he is locked in talks with the club’s hierarchy. Asked directly whether he wanted to stay he said: “Of course”.
And on the talks with the club, he said: “There are discussions at the moment, hopefully we can get them resolved.
“This is a massive football club, I’m really enjoying playing for so until I’m told my services are no longer required, I’m fighting for my life as I do every week to perform. Who knows what the future holds but until I’m told my services are no longer required, I’ll do everything for the football club.”
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Ritchie has come to represent Newcastle under Benitez: a player who works tremendously hard but also has the talent to affect games.
And the way he has adapted to an unfamiliar left wing-back role has been impressive as he has carved out a new place in the United XI.
Asked whether it is his best season in black and white he said: “I don’t know about that. Don’t get me wrong I’ve been very pleased with the way I’ve adapted to the new regime.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it and learnt a lot but you can’t say it is my best season. The Championship was a different season, we were expected to win. I’ve been pleased with all three seasons. There is always room for improvement and I want to strive for more and improve in areas of my game. I still want more.”
Ritchie’s contract expires in 2021.
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