Newcastle United ace Matt Ritchie has opened up on his role for manager Eddie Howe.

The versatile star was one of the first names on the team sheet for the Magpies in the past.

However, he is now a squad player who can be asked to fill in over several positions.

When asked about his role, Ritchie said, per Chronicle Live: "The gaffer felt I still had something to offer the group and I decided I want to play as high as I can for as long as I can.

"At the start of the season, we had 25 or 26 fit players and opportunities were looking few and far between. But the group has taken a few knocks and I've been called upon, which I've really enjoyed.

"The pressure that comes with needing to be ready has driven me. You don't want to let your team-mates down and we have a great environment."

Ritchie reflected: "It's been a challenge [this season]. I've been lucky that in my career, more often than not, I've been playing week in, week out.

"This period at Newcastle has been the first time I've not been, but it comes with age — plus the team is evolving. It's all natural. As footballers, we all work with the sports psychologists. You learn to put things in perspective and understand the feelings that come with not playing. For me, it was accepting my situation."