Mark Douglas has given his reaction to a report from The Sun this week that Matt Ritchie may leave Newcastle United before this month’s window shuts.
As per the news outlet, the Scotland international may be involved in a potential swap deal with AFC Bournemouth for Philip Billing that would see the latter join the St. James’ Park faithful.
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Douglas has since given his reaction to the transfer rumour, with The Chronicle journalist tweeting that he thinks that it is a ‘strange one’ given that he got a new deal at the Tyneside club just ten months ago.
Newcastle should keep Ritchie
Steve Bruce’s team should look to keep hold of Ritchie as the January window closes, as even though he is 31 years of age now, he has plenty of experience that can help the Magpies both on and off of the pitch, especially given the difficult time that they are facing at this moment as they edge ever nearer to the dreaded relegation zone in the Premier League.
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The winger, currently valued at £8.55m by Transfermarkt, has played in no fewer than 159 games in all competitions in the North East over the last five consecutive terms, scoring 24 goals and making a further 28 assists (Transfermarkt).
In addition, comparing Billing to some of the Toon’s current options in the heart of the midfield, the 24-year-old has averaged fewer interceptions and tackles than both Isaac Hayden and Jonjo Shelvey in their respective domestic leagues so far in the 2020/21 term (Whoscored), with Billing playing in a league with less quality.
The Denmark international may not even be an upgrade on the team anyway, giving NUFC more incentive to keep Ritchie on their books.
In other news, find out whose display against Leeds United was slammed by Lee Ryder here!
