2019/20 Newcastle United Review: Matt Ritchie

Matt Ritchie’s season was hindered by a long-term injury, but he did return to hold down a spot on the wing for Newcastle United.

Unfortunately, the story of the season for Matt Ritchie was his major injury due to a reckless tackle by Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury. Once he returned from injury, Ritchie played a role down the stretch for Newcastle United on the wing.

2019-20 EPL stats: 18 appearances, two goals, one assist, 99 crosses

Expert Breakdown

Durim Halimi: Every team needs a Matt Ritchie in their squad. The energetic winger provided that spark of urgency for Newcastle United all season, and proved to be a versatile player for Steve Bruce to effectively utilize out wide on both ends of the pitch.

It is difficult to pinpoint a single game where Ritchie had a poor performance, but the same can be said in terms of standout performances.

Ritchie was a key player for the Magpies in Project Restart as he scored two brilliant goals from distance, but he needs to increase his overall output. A player of his caliber should be scoring at least seven or eight goals per season, and let’s hope he can reach that tally next term.

Carson A. Merk: When it comes to Matt Ritchie, you can always count on him for energy and intensity. In limited action this season, he was able to provide that spark and also register some decent numbers.

The tackle by Choudhury that took him out was brutal. But, it was good to see him work his way back and play a part for Steve Bruce’s side.

He shouldn’t be relied on as a starter for Newcastle as we enter next season, as the club has looked for new wingers to bring in. His position going forward should be as a rotational player on the wing or as an emergency left-back.