With Jetro Willems suffering an injury, Matt Ritchie will be the primary option at left wing-back for Newcastle United.
Early in yesterday’s match vs. Chelsea, Jetro Willems went down with a potentially serious knee injury. He’s a quality player and Newcastle United will miss him, especially because of a lack of depth at left wing-back. Matt Ritchie came on to replace Willems vs. the Blues and the gruff veteran will be expected to step up big time for the Magpies.
Traditionally, Matt Ritchie has been winger or midfielder throughout his career. But, Newcastle needed him to play as a left back or left wing-back in recent years and he stepped into the role well. When the club needed a good ball in from out wide or a last-minute goal, Ritchie has been able to deliver. Now that he’s back from his lengthy recovery from an ankle injury, the fiery Ritchie will be counted on in a crucial position.
Willems is a steady defender, has quality on the ball, and has been a key player for Steve Bruce this season. While Ritchie isn’t as natural as a defender, he is a great crosser of the ball and always brings a great work rate to this side. He recorded 14 assists over the 2018/19 and 2017/18 Premier League seasons. The 30-year-old is also a good motivator and can be trusted as a leader for Newcastle.
Depending on how long Willems is out, I’d expect Ritchie to primarily fill the left wing-back position with Paul Dummett also an option. With the lack of depth, the position could also move up the pecking order for an incoming transfer this window. Rafa Benitez often wanted to strengthen that full back spot, but Jordan Lukaku didn’t get through his medical and Antonio Barreca was a non-factor on loan. No matter if a player comes in or not, Steve Bruce will be able to rely on Matt Ritchie.