Portsmouth boss Danny Cowley has admitted that he believes that Newcastle United winger Matt Ritchie will end his career at the club.

A product of Pompey's academy, Ritchie made 10 appearances for the club before sealing a permanent switch to Swindon Town in 2011.

Since 2016, Ritchie has represented Newcastle in the Championship and the Premier League.

Whereas the Magpies are currently thriving under the guidance of Eddie Howe in the top-flight, Ritchie has recently missed a chunk of action due to injury.

Before suffering an issue with his calf, the winger was limited to just two appearances due to the presence of Miguel Almiron.

In an interview with GIVEMESPORT, journalist Dean Jones has revealed that Newcastle are believed to be willing to sanction a departure for Ritchie in the January transfer window.

Whereas Cowley has admitted that Portsmouth will not be making an approach in the New Year, he does believe that Ritchie will eventually end his career at Fratton Park.

Speaking to The News, Cowley said: "I'd like him, is that possible?

"Well, we'd love to have Matt Ritchie.

"I'm not sure we'd be able to cover his wages coming to Portsmouth, though!

"That said, he loves the club and he's been to a couple of games with his boys.

"We'd like him - I think our xG would go up then and there will be moaning about set-pieces!

"I do think he will finish his career at Portsmouth, though."

The Verdict

If Newcastle are indeed willing to part ways with Ritchie, it wouldn't be at all surprising if he attracts some attention from teams in the Championship as he has shown in his career that he is capable of thriving at this level.

During the 123 second-tier games that he has participated in, Ritchie has scored 36 goals and has provided 28 assists.

Pompey will be hoping to eventually secure a return to this division under the guidance of Cowley and potentially reunite with Ritchie in the future.

Currently fifth in the League One standings, Portsmouth will move level on points with Peterborough United this evening if they defeat Derby County at Fratton Park.