This Newcastle United player drives everyone 'bonkers'

That’s the view of Steve Bruce ahead of the visit of his former club Aston Villa to St James’s Park tomorrow.

Matt Ritchie – who scored in Sunday’s 3-0 home win over Sheffield United – is one of the first names on Steve Bruce’s teamsheet.

The winger is also one of the most vocal players at the club, and fans watching the behind-closed-doors game without crowd noise could hear him.

“Ritchie picks himself,” said head coach Bruce. “He drives people bonkers and plays with enthusiasm. He’s a great pro. His fitness levels are terrific. We changed him to the left. He scored a goal and made one, and we were delighted.”

Ritchie, signed from Bournemouth in 2016, was asked about his shouts after the game.

“Yeah, I realise anyone watching on telly without the crowd noise will have heard me,” said winger Ritchie, who signed a new deal at St James’s Park earlier this year. No one should be surprised about that. Everyone has their own way, We have many leaders in our squad, but I have my own way of leading – and yes, it’s loud!”

Meanwhile, Bruce is expecting a “very difficult” game against second-bottom Villa, his former club.

“They will do everything to keep Premier League survival,” said Bruce. “It’s vital to keep yourself in the Premier League. It’ll be difficult – it’s a very difficult game.”