Newcastle United vs. Southampton: Opposition threat

By Marc Walker | Mar 9, 2018

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 11: Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St. James Park on February 11, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images) /

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NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 11: Matt Ritchie of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St. James Park on February 11, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Matt Ritchie

Former Portsmouth and Bournemouth winger Ritchie is often one of the main creative forces in the Magpies’ attacks.

He possesses a strong left-foot that gives him good passing ability, set-piece accuracy and a powerful shot from short or long-range.

The 28-year-old scored the deciding goal in Newcastle’s recent home win against Manchester United, and has six Premier League assists to his name this season; proving his importance to Rafa Benitez’s set-up.

Ritchie is likely to operate from the right-wing against Saints, and will look to cut in to both shoot and create.