A lot of Newcastle United fans are not surprised to hear that Matt Ritchie has retired from international football, and they support his decision.
Ritchie had played 16 times for Scotland – who he qualified for playing with through his dad, but at the age of 30, he has decided that he has had enough.
The reasons he gave Steve Clarke were family-related, and fitness-related with Ritchie said to be keen to remain at peak physical condition for Newcastle.
The former Bournemouth man managed to score three goals for Scotland but received heavy abuse from some Scottish fans who did not want him associated with the team.
Do you support Ritchie's decision?
Yes, better for him and his family
No, should have continued his international career
Ritchie is loved on Tyneside, but he never got that affection north of the border, and I am glad he has decided to focus fully on the Toon.
Hopefully, we see him back in black & white soon.
See the best of the reaction below.
Exclusive: NUFC winger Matt Ritchie calls time on Scotland career after fresh approach from boss Steve Clarke. Full details here https://t.co/OiqkK0NGMG
— Craig Hope (@CraigHope_DM) November 11, 2019
When he fit, he’s good EPL player quality no doubt but always overlook from Scottland.
— Ginkoh_NUFC (@Ginkohro) November 12, 2019
It really is horrible seeing him in a different teams strip(even if that is his country)
— B 2.0 (@JMAG1892_2) November 12, 2019
that’s a relief!!
— Jeremy Quin (@Thaiblue) November 12, 2019
These Newcastle fans are in support of Ritchie’s decision.
Did his Scotland career really start.
— llesrum 79 (@llesrum) November 12, 2019
What Scotland career?
— ????????Fɾαɳƈιʂƈσ???????? (@francisco_090) November 11, 2019
Other Toon fans are asking what Scotland career as to them it never started.