Matt Ritchie is ‘happier than ever’ at Newcastle

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Newcastle United star Matt Ritchie has spoken of his happiness at the club, months after he was strongly linked with a move away from St. James’ Park.

The Scotland international could have jumped ship last term, with Stoke City and Middlesbrough reported to have been preparing a £15 million offer (The Telegraph).

Rafa Benitez was open to a sale, but a move never materialised for the player.

Ritchie stayed put, and Newcastle apparently missed out on Andros Townsend as a result.

While the Englishman has had a great season over at Selhurst Park, Ritchie has quietly proven that he was worth keeping hold of.

The star has been operating at left wing-back in recent weeks and is doing an excellent job covering for Paul Dummett.

‘Happier than ever’

Speaking ahead of his reunion with Bournemouth this weekend, as quoted by The Shields Gazette, he said: “I’m really enjoying it. We’re in the thick of a Premier League season, and it’s a fantastic club. And the role I’m in, I’m really enjoying it.”

The Gazette describes Ritchie as being ‘happier than ever’, and that has certainly been showing out on the pitch.

Ritchie came close to leaving the club and had that been the case, the Magpies would have lost a player who gives his all week in week out.

Ritchie’s workhorse nature and versatility have made him a crucial first team player this season.