Newman, who has been outstanding for the Blue Toon this season, was taken back to Tannadice on Wednesday under an emergency ruling and with his availability uncertain for future games the Balmoor boss moved for Ritchie after his own temporary transfer to Queen of the South was ended.
Jim said: “It is not the best kept secret in the world that we were interested in Tom during the summer however when we drew Aberdeen in the Premier Sports Cup it was a route we did not pursue.”
“We were very happy to get Jack in and he has done really well for us however when it became known he would be missing this weekend and possibly longer than that we had to act. I would like to thank Jack for his time with us and wish him well for the rest of the season at Dundee United.”
“Tom’s recall from Queen of the South came at a good time for us as we are now able to get him on board. He has the potential to be a very good goalkeeper and is well-known for being one of the best kickers of the ball for his age.”
