Matt Ritchie Attributes Improved Strength to Gym Efforts

Portsmouth midfielder Matt Ritchie, aged 35, has stated that consistent hard work in the gym has brought him to a point where he feels the strongest he has in a considerable period. Ritchie, who began his career as a youth trainee at Portsmouth, recently scored his first goal for the club during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Swansea. Despite this, the team remains at the bottom of the Championship standings. Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, Ritchie affirmed, “My body is in a really good place and I’ve felt strong for a really long time now.” He further explained his regimen, adding, “I’ve been working hard with the guys in the gym and just doing small little bits and pieces – obviously people know I didn’t play a lot of football over the last 18 months but my body is in a fantastic place.” Ritchie commenced his career with Portsmouth, making 10 first-team appearances before transferring to Swindon, then Bournemouth, and subsequently securing a £12m move to Newcastle. After spending eight years at St James’ Park, he returned to Portsmouth in July. Pompey is now set to play consecutive home games against Bristol City and Norwich City. Ritchie also commented on the atmosphere at their home ground, stating, “Fratton Park has to become a place where teams know what they’re going to get and a place they fear coming to.”