Matt Ritchie says Newcastle United players must remain professional after Rafa Benitez's exit

Matt Ritchie insists that Newcastle United must move on from the Rafa Benitez situation.

The winger is set to stay at United despite being linked with Bournemouth and Stoke City in the last six months.

And while he spoke of his disappointment on Benitez’s departure, he feels the squad must push forward for the new season.

He said: “To see the manager leave was disappointing.

“He had a good reign at the club.

“It was a decision made between the manager and the owner.

“We now look forward to a new manager and a new season.” 

In the interim between appointing Benitez's appointment, academy boss Bewn Dawson is taking charge of first team affairs as they prepare to take part in the Premier League Asia Trophy. They play Wolves in the semi-final on Wednesday.

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Ritchie said of the training so far: "Ben and Neil (Redfearn)‘s sessions have been of high quality and good intensity so we’re not missing anything in that respect.

"The new manager will want to add players but we’re preparing so that when the new manager does come in, we can hit the ground running.”