New arrival at St James Park, Matt Ritchie has told Chronicle Live what played a key role in his move to the championship club.
The former Swindon man moved to the North East this summer after a substantial fee had been agreed between Newcastle and Bournemouth.
The fact that Ritchie had dropped a league to play for the relegated club was a shock to everyone. But when he spoke about his move he revealed that the chance to work with Rafa Benitez was just to good to turn down.
When asked about Benitez’s involvement in the move he said;
“He’s a massive draw.”
“he’s won just about everything there is to win in football and I’m really looking forward to working with him.”
The former cherry brings with him experience of a promotion to the premier league, This could be a key factor in the clubs bid to be promoted in the fourth coming campaign.
Ritchie went on to say: “It’s not an easy league to get out of, but hopefully we will be successful.
“We have a good group of players.”
The Hampshire born winger explained that it was hard to leave the club. “It was a tough decision because I loved my time at Bournemouth.”
“I had a fantastic spell there and it was very successful.”
“I also have a lot of friends there, it was a tough decision to leave a club like Bournemouth.
“But when a club like Newcastle comes calling you can’t say no.
“Especially with the size of the club, the structure and the manager here.
“It has been fantastic and i have really enjoyed the first couple of days.”
“The training has been ver high quality and I am looking forward to the start of the season.”
Ritchie joined Benitez at Newcastle after he signed a five year deal in recent weeks. This was to become the spaniard’s third summer signing after arrivals of goalkeeper Matz Sels and striker Dwight Gayle.
