Matt Ritchie has posted an emotional message on social media following the news that he would be leaving Newcastle United with his contract expiring in the summer.
In his statement โ which you can read in full below โ Ritchie wanted to thank each and every supporter for backing him week in week out and claimed that no matter where he goes next he will always be watching Newcastle as a fan from afar.
A message from Matt Ritchie. ๐ซถ pic.twitter.com/NxEx9PuQG6
โ Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) May 31, 2024
Ritchie spent eight years in the North East and played a key role in helping the club win promotion straight back to the Premier League and maintaining their top flight status for the following seasons.
Though he isnโt the most glamorous player in terms of style, Ritchie has at times played all over the pitch and shown a real dedication and hard-working attitude that has been massive for us during some tough periods.
While he hasnโt played as many games as he would have liked in the last few years, the 34-year-old has still played a key role off the pitch and in training as Eddie Howe suggested earlier in the week.
Whenever we sign a player, regardless how much he cost or his reasons for picking NUFC over any other suitor – all we ask from them as fans is they give their all when wearing the shirt – Matt Ritchie has absolutely done that every single time.
The saying goes – hard work beats talents when talent doesnโt work hard. Well Ritchie may not have been our most talented player – but fewer will have worked harder than him imo.
I have no doubt he could walk into any pub in Newcastle and drink for free all night.
I wish him all the best for whatever his future holds – top man ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ
Sharpy17(Quote)
Sharpy17:-
Couldnโt have put it any better.
Joseph(Quote)
Thanks for everything Ritchie ! You crazy Scot ๐๐
Daniel nerli(Quote)
Good luck Matt, one of our battlers , our corner flags will be breathing a sigh of relief ๐
kimtoon(Quote)
Your best was always good enough Matt , and you always gave it
John Amos(Quote)