Ritchie has been 'studying' for new role
- Published
BBC Radio Solent's Jordan Clark and Joe Partington discuss the news that former midfielder Matt Ritchie will replace Simon Francis as technical director at AFC Bournemouth.
"The one thing about Matt above all else, aside from being a wonderfully talented football player, he's an amazing guy," Partington said.
"He's a real contributor to that Cherries side, on and off the pitch. Often people don't see what professional footballers are doing away from football.
"He's been really studying for something like this, he's close friends with Francis as well, so I'm sure there will have been a lot of conversation between the two of them.
"In the later stage of someone's career you do start to piece together what they may have learned. What traits may allow you to be successful. I'm hoping he's going to be successful. I know he's put a lot into being prepared for this, but I think it's a good move."
