Portsmouth make decision over homecoming wish for Newcastle United ace Matt Ritchie
Portsmouth fans hoping for an emotional homecoming for Matt Ritchie are set to miss out on their wish, according to The News.
The Newcastle United man is set to leave St. James’ Park as a free agent this summer after over 200 appearances, with 13 Premier League matches and one goal under his belt this term – all as a substitute.
At 34, the Gosport lad – who came through Pompey’s academy before carving out an excellent career – is said not to fit the transfer model the club are operating, whereby young talent are developed as assets.
Ritchie has spent most of his Premier League and Championship career as a versatile left-sided player, utilised both at left-back and further forward on the flank.
With Pompey’s promotion back to the second tier heightening rumours of returns for both Ritchie and Joel Ward – who has just committed to a 13th season at Crystal Palace – the left-back area is not currently a pressing concern for John Mousinho. Connor Ogilvie has been offered a new contract, whilst Jack Sparkes remains under his current deal.
Should Portsmouth go back in for Matt Ritchie?
Fans love a homecoming, especially for a local lad or a former hero. Take Marlon Pack as the obvious example of when it works.
Going back a few years, you’ve got Benjani, although the second time was never quite the same. And on a managerial front, Harry Redknapp. Steeped in controversy it may have been – but it worked.
Ritchie, Ward and Pack were actually all in the Pompey squad for the Scotland international’s debut, way back in 2010 during the last, administration-hit Premier League season – a goalless draw at Wigan Athletic.
Without sentiment clouding any judgement – as hard as it may be – it’s reluctantly understandable why Pompey are not looking at the Ritchies and Wards of this world, who are likely to command high wages and zero sell-on value with the Eisners looking to operate under a self-sustainable model, like most EFL clubs.
From a purely footballing perspective, Ritchie would be touted to have an impact and bring top-level experience to a Blues roster currently lacking in it. But it would be unfair of us to dismiss Portsmouth’s call before Mousinho and his staff have assembled a capable Championship squad.
Make judgements in September.
In other Portsmouth news, Andy Cullen explains the reason behind season ticket price rises.
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