Matt Ritchie has hailed the impact that Salomon Rondon had on Newcastle United this season.
The 29-year-old striker proved a huge success on Tyneside during his loan spell from West Brom, scoring 12 and assisting seven more.
And Ritchie has been quick to sing his praises.
Speaking to the club’s official website, as quoted by the Chronicle, he said: “I think the second half of the season we’ve been brilliant – as we were last season.
“Obviously there were a few additions to the team in January, and I think Rondon has made a huge difference to us – not just his goals, but the way we can get up the pitch with him.”
OPINION
Ritchie is hardly reinventing the wheel by praising Rondon, but his words should be taken on board nonetheless. The striker has been one of the most impactful signings that the Magpies have made in many, many years. He has helped transform a creaking, unimaginative attack into one that posed a real cutting edge towards the end of the season, and as Ritchie alludes to, aside from his goals, he also helps to improve the side as a whole with his link up play and willingness to drop deep for the team. There is nobody better placed to talk about his impact than somebody who has played alongside him week in, week out, and if the board are looking for a recommendation on why they should bite the bullet and sign him up, then they need only speak to his colleagues. Hopefully Rondon can be persuaded to stay because evidently losing him would be a real blow to a side that are just beginning to rediscover their mojo.
