Lots of Newcastle supporters have been reacting on social media after Matt Ritchie confirmed he’s in talks with United over a prolonged contract.
The Scottish midfielder, who has been a surprising revelation this season at wing-back, has told the Chronicle that he is desperate to remain a Magpie next season, despite speculation that he was ready to quit the club.
Football Insider reported earlier in May that the 29-year-old was considering dropping back down a tier as he had no future at St James’ Park. Stoke City were even said to be willing to offer the £45,000-a-week ace a new home this summer, with the Potters said to be preparing a lucrative, long-term contract.
Gosport-born Ritchie, however, has stated that discussions are underway with United over a new contract, and that he hopes to stay on Tyneside until he is told that his services are no longer required.
“There are discussions at the moment, hopefully we can get them resolved,” he said. “This is a massive football club, I’m really enjoying playing for [United], 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.”
Ritchie’s current deal runs until the summer of 2021, and given how vital he was to our 13th place finish, selling the £10.8million-rated ace would be a mistake.
The 16-cap former international recorded eight assists in the Premier League during the 2018/19 campaign, along with two goals. He also scored our only goal in the FA Cup draw at home to Blackburn and assisted the goal that secured our replay win.
So when the Chronicle shared that discussions are underway to keep the 5 ft 6 wide man at the club, here’s how the fanbase reacted on Twitter…
If Rafa and Ritchie gets tied down before the end of the week it would be brilliant
— Adrian (@Adrian____29) May 16, 2019
Charnley will need a lie down later.Rafa talks,Ritchie talks.Wonder if Ritchie slaps Charnley around the back of the head if talks go well
— Martin Williams (@Nitramantra) May 16, 2019
Hope this is a hint that Rafa stays too. Definitely want Ritchie to stay.
— Christine Hearne (@christinesusanh) May 16, 2019
Fantastic news ????◼️◻️◼️◻️
— Toonfan (@ataylor1892) May 16, 2019
No-brainer
— KTDT (@KTD89) May 16, 2019
Great news. Top pro.
— David Short (@davidshort63) May 16, 2019
Got a good 2/3 years left in him. Get him signed on! ⚫️⚪️⚫️⚪️⚫️⚪️
— gc21 (@gcross2102) May 16, 2019
Puts a lot of effort into his game. An inspiration on the field.
— Lord Anthony (@toastofworcesta) May 16, 2019
Finally some good news. Whilst I don’t think he would be my first choice if we had someone better, he’s the type of grafter you would want around the club to be on the heels of others. #trueprofessional
— Hepps (@Hepps9) May 16, 2019
We desperately need to keep players like Ritchie, hes not a top top player but would bleed for the shirt. We need leaders like that on the pitch and his general play has got better under Rafa
— Fenzo_UK (@fenzo_uk) May 16, 2019