Ritchie comments on Newcastle reportedly set to bring in Howe

Matt Ritchie has shared his excitement to work with Eddie Howe again, as Newcastle reportedly look set to announce his appointment on Monday.

Howe, 43, was clearly seen alongside Amanda Staveley on Saturday evening as Newcastle took on Brighton at The Amex. They earned a 1-1 draw.

A solid result against a good Brighton side, Howe will have been encouraged by numerous positives. Certainly, something to build on.

Howe will now have the international break to get things sorted, before Newcastle host out-of-form Brentford. A real chance to make a good start.

Of course, Howe’s introduction as Newcastle manager will be made easier with the presence of some of his former Bournemouth players, on Tyneside.

£12million signing (Metro) Ritchie is one of those – along with Ryan Fraser and Callum Wilson. After the 1-1 draw, Ritchie shared his excitement.

“For me, my time with him was fantastic, I loved every minute. We have a young hungry group here and I am sure he can bring out the best in them.

“What he did at Bournemouth was nothing short of a miracle. I have all the praise in the world for him. We have some really talented players.”

Ritchie on Howe: Can he get Newcastle firing, and fans on side?

Clearly, it is not the glitzy appointment Toon fans might have hoped for. But what it is, is a manager who knows how to fight against relegation.

For four seasons, Howe kept Bournemouth in the Premier League – after guiding them from the depths of the Football League to the top tier.

Bournemouth are where they are now, because of Howe. Yes, they were relegated, but they were promoted numerous times, and kept up by Howe.

Concerns about his transfer record will not apply here. Newcastle will be appointing a director of football – Howe will be left to coach the side.

He is what Newcastle need right now. Can he get fans on side? Win against Brentford and he certainly can – but he will need some patience.