Matt Ritchie has confirmed he is in talks over a new contract with Newcastle.
The winger has put an end to any speculation regarding his future by revealing he has held negotiations to extend his stay at St James’ Park.
Ritchie’s current contract expires in 2021, with Newcastle now attempting to keep the player at the club longer-term.
“There are discussions at the moment, hopefully we can get them resolved,” said Ritchie, speaking after the final game of the season against Fulham.
“This is a massive football club I’m really enjoying playing for, so until I’m told my services are no longer required, I’m fighting for my life as I do every week to perform.”
The 29-year-old has demonstrated his loyalty to the club and, despite being linked with a move to Stoke City, insists he is fully committed to Newcastle.
“Who knows what the future holds but until I’m told my services are no longer required, I’ll do everything for the football club.”
Ritchie’s performances on the pitch this season have improved hugely under manager Rafa Benitez, and the Scotland international has adapted well to make an unfamiliar role at left wing-back his own.
“Don’t get me wrong I’ve been very pleased with the way I’ve adapted to the new regime.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it and learnt a lot but you can’t say it is my best season.”
Ritchie spent three years at Bournemouth before making the move to Newcastle in 2016, but he believes his best is yet to come in the black and white stripes.
“The Championship was a different season, we were expected to win.
I’ve been pleased with all three seasons. There is always room for improvement and I want to strive for more and improve in areas of my game. I still want more.”
Ritchie appeared in 36 of Newcastle’s 38 league games this season, behind only Ayoze Perez (37) and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, who played every minute of Premier League football in 2018-19.
It is not the first time Ritchie’s Newcastle future has been a major talking point, with reports earlier this year suggesting that Benitez had told the player he was free to leave.
Ritchie has, however, ended such speculation by confirming his ambitions to remain on Tyneside.
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