‘Interested’ - Manager breaks silence on emotional reunion with Newcastle United veteran

Portsmouth manager Jose Mousinho has stayed coy about the prospect of signing Matt Ritchie this summer.

Newcastle United confirmed last month that the 35-year-old will leave the club once his contract expires on June 30. Ritchie joined the Magpies in 2016 following Premier League relegation and has since become a fans’ favourite.

After playing a vital role in securing promotion, Ritchie helped Newcastle pin down their top-flight status. Recent years have resulted in the veteran taking a backseat role, acting as a mentor to younger players.

Sean Longstaff previously opened up about how the former Scotland international helped him through difficult moments - both on and off the pitch - throughout his Toon career. 

“After eight incredible years, my journey with Newcastle has come to an end and before I begin to prepare for an exciting new challenge at my new club, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made my time here so special. To the fans, your unwavering support has and always will mean the world to me.

“From the elation of scoring the winner against Burton Albion as we chased promotion, to a personal highlight of mine, seeing out a 1-0 win over Man United to help secure our Premier League status in 2018. These moments, where we battled and triumphed together at St James' Park, will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Portsmouth - the club Ritchie started at as a youngster - are rumoured to be interested. Pompey boss Mousinho has refused to be drawn on speculation regarding the Toon favourite.

“With Matt, everyone at Portsmouth knows him and he’s had a fantastic career,” he said. “I don’t know what the circumstances around Matt's intentions are this summer. If it was one we were interested in I wouldn’t say anything - and if it wasn’t I’d still not say anything!’’