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Newcastle defender Matt Ritchie to be left in tough spot following Danny Rose arrival
Matt Ritchie is considered a real favourite around St James’ Park, but it looks like he could be backed into a corner at Newcastle United and lose his regular spot in the team.
The 30-year-old arrived at the Magpies in 2016 as a skilful winger and over time has developed into a decent left wing-back option.
He’s had his injury problems this season holding him back, but has returned to action in recent weeks and has an excellent work-rate whenever he plays.
It looks like he is solely used now as a full-back, with the likes of Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin providing the firepower on the wings going forward.
That is why Steve Bruce’s latest signing Danny Rose from Tottenham should set the alarm bells ringing for Ritchie.
Rose completed a move from Tottenham to St James’ Park on Thursday on loan for the rest of the season and there is no way he’s joined just to make up the numbers.
The 29-year-old left-back is still a regular in the England squad and surely he’s going to slot straight into the Newcastle XI.
He’s got a point to prove after seeing his form dip recently at Spurs and he’s an exciting addition that Newcastle fans are looking forward to seeing.
But that will mean Ritchie slipping down the pecking order at left-back, while it’s hard to picture him forcing his way into the side as a winger.
He may need to take a backseat moving forward with more of a squad role and it’s a shame for a player that gives so much on the pitch.