IT could be anyone but him.

This would probably be the response from everyone connected with Cherries if asked which Newcastle player they would want a looping ball to fall to.

These sentiments hold no grudge against Matt Ritchie who will always be a prominent and respected part of the Dorset club’s journey to the Premier League.

However, Cherries know too well that his technical ability to strike a ball is up there with the very best in the top flight.

Ritchie delivered one of the finest strikes in Cherries’ recent history with his stunning volley against Sunderland in 2015. That effort flew into the same net as Saturday’s late leveller.

The latest entry into the former Portsmouth talent’s catalogue of wonder goals stole the show from Joshua King’s double which made him the second most prolific Norwegian player in Premier League history.

Callum Wilson grabbed attention last week for his sharp return to the starting XI, however similar positive headlines were snatched away from King.

Ritchie’s effort also denied a depleted Cherries squad the opportunity to make significant inroads towards the top half.

Andrew Surman’s calf injury left Howe without seven of his most experienced charges but the international break could provide an opportunity to welcome back some of the stricken stars.

Cherries could still eclipse their best Premier League points tally of 46 and better the ninth-place finish in 2016-17 but they need the troops available for the home stretch.