Mitrovic, signed from Anderlecht last summer, scored nine Premier League goals in his first season at United.
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Ritchie was part of the Bournemouth side which ran out easy 3-1 winners at St James’ Park in March as supporters turned on McClaren and threw season-tickets in his direction during a poisonous afternoon.
Andros Townsend’s summer departure could have left an attacking void in the Magpies’ line-up, but Benitez quickly replaced the England global by convincing Ritchie to swap Premier League AFC Bournemouth for another stint in the Championship.
He returned to the City Ground immediately, spending the entire 2014/15 season on loan at his former club to aid his development.
‘But it was also the size of the club that attracted me, you only have to look around you. “I am here because I am confident we can do it”.
“I hope I can get goals in the Championship”, he said.
Considering only relegated MK Dons lost more home games than the Cottagers, bet365’s even money (2.00) appears more than fair on them coming away empty-handed against the title favourites – particularly given top scorer Ross McCormack has left the club for Aston Villa.
Benitez made Ritchie his first outfield signing as Newcastle boss, and the Scotland global added: ‘The fact the manager stayed here is huge.
‘Everything is going in the right direction now.
With Will Grigg leading the line, Wigan Athletic stormed their way to last season’s League One title as the second highest scoring team in the entire Football League. It is great to be involved in this and I want to contribute.
Matz Sels has revealed he snubbed Premier League interest in order to join Newcastle United.
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“In my career I always try to go step by step”.
