Newcastle United winger Matt Ritchie insists big spending isn't the total solution for improvements on the field.

The Scotland international feels that any team outside the Premier League's top six are capable of getting dragged into the scrap in the bottom half of the table.

Speaking about recent talk of Newcastle spending money, Ritchie told the Evening Chronicle: "People talk about not wanting to be in this position again, but that's naive when you're talking about the Premier League.

"It's a frustrating one.

"I understand, and as players you want to achieve great things, but you have to be realistic.

"Other than the top six, every team can be in the relegation mix.

"Everton spent £100m last season, but with ten games to go, they were still in trouble.

"From the top six down, anyone can be in a relegation battle, anyone.

"Whether they get a bad start or a bad run, you have to be realistic."