Matt Ritchie posts emotional goobye message after Newcastle exit

Matt Ritchie has posted an emotional message on social media following the news that he would be leaving Newcastle United with his contract expiring in the summer.

In his statement - which you can read in full below - Ritchie wanted to thank each and every supporter for backing him week in week out and claimed that no matter where he goes next he will always be watching Newcastle as a fan from afar.

https://twitter.com/NUFC/status/1796550340290159049

Ritchie spent eight years in the North East and played a key role in helping the club win promotion straight back to the Premier League and maintaining their top flight status for the following seasons.

Though he isn't the most glamorous player in terms of style, Ritchie has at times played all over the pitch and shown a real dedication and hard-working attitude that has been massive for us during some tough periods.

While he hasn't played as many games as he would have liked in the last few years, the 34-year-old has still played a key role off the pitch and in training as Eddie Howe suggested earlier in the week.