Steve Bruce reveals Matt Ritchie's 'frustration' at Newcastle United amid Bournemouth transfer interest

Bournemouth, Ritchie’s former club, have again been linked with a bid for the winger in this month’s transfer window after a proposed move to the Vitality Stadium broke down last summer.

Bruce, however, says he’s reluctant to sell the 31-year-old, who has not been starting regularly this season. Ritchie’s family are based on the South Coast.

"Look, we all understand what Matt’s situation is,” said Bruce. “He’s been a very, very good player, still is a very good player. He’s been here for the best part of five years.

"His frustration, of course, is he’s not playing week in and week out like he has done in the past. So, anybody in the squad, if the right offer comes along, then … we have to make way to bring somebody in. We have to make way.

"You can never say never. Certainly, Matty’s been here a long, long time, so it would take a hell of an offer.”

Bournemouth manager Jason Tindall was yesterday asked about Ritchie, signed in 2016 following the club’s relegation to the Championship.

"Listen, it’s wrong for me to comment on other teams’ players,” said Tindall. “I wouldn’t do that – I don’t think it’s right.

"I think everyone knows what a fantastic player Matt Ritchie is, and how well he did for this football club during his time here. But, I don’t think it would be right for me to speculate on someone else’s player."

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