OPINION
Things are looking up for Newcastle United.
They have a brand new South American fan favourite pulling up trees already, they have a homegrown hero bossing things in the centre of the park, and they have a manager who is arguably their most talented since Sir Bobby Robson.
One player who has slipped under the radar, however, and who deserves massive credit for the role he is playing in the side’s recent upturn in fortunes is Matt Ritchie.
The winger has been converted into a left wing-back by Rafa Benitez in recent weeks, and he’s doing a marvellous job in his new position.
Playing three at the back is a logical step for a side that have been as fragile as the Magpies have been in recent years, but so much success in that system hinges on having full-backs who can bomb up and down all afternoon, providing gusto in attack and solidity in defence.
Ritchie has assumed both responsibilities fantastically.
His attacking prowess was never really in doubt, but the way in which he has adapted to life as a defender is admirable.
He is calm and level-headed in his defensive third, but also possesses the physicality and stamina to match most wingers in a straight up duel out wide.
It may not get all the plaudits, but moving Ritchie to full-back has been a masterstroke.