Newcastle’s Matt Richie admits it will be strange returning to his former home this weekend, however aims to send his former side packing from St James’ Park empty handed.
Richie and Newcastle welcome Bournemouth to Tyneside on Saturday afternoon in what will be the first time the Scotsman has faced his former side since leaving Dean Court during the summer of 2016.
“I’m looking forward to facing Bournemouth. It’ll be a strange feeling playing against some friends and people that I spent probably the best years of my life with,” the 28-year-old winger said (via the Chronicle).
“We secured some fantastic achievements with that group of players and the manager and the staff. I had a brilliant time there.”
“It’ll be strange to now be up against them but I’m a Newcastle player now and I want us to collect another three points at home.”
Richie spent four seasons with the Cherries, playing a vital role in their momentous rise from League One to the Premier League between 2012 and 2016 before his £10 million move to the Magpies.
“The last time they were at St James’ Park, I was in a Bournemouth shirt and we really made it difficult for Newcastle that day.
“This time around, I’m hoping it’s the opposite and we make life difficult for them and get the win we want.
“It’s about continuing our promising home form.”
