Ritchie and Bruce had a falling out in the aftermath of Newcastle’s 1-1 draw against Wolves in February where the Magpies manager appeared to blame the full-back for not passing on tactical instructions.
The left-back allegedly called Bruce a coward for blaming him and he remained an unused substitute in the next three league games for Newcastle.
But Ritchie has started all of Newcastle’s last four games where they picked up eight points, which has helped him to steer them away from the relegation zone.
Shearer feels the defender brings a certain kind of attitude to the team, which is helpful and his ability to deliver dangerous balls into the box is a brilliant addition.
The former Magpie also stressed that Bruce showed a certain amount of bravery in putting his differences with Ritchie aside and get him back into the team.
“Ritchie has been another key figure in Newcastle’s recovery”, Shearer told The Athletic.
“You know what he’s going to provide for the team, but that predictability is good. He’ll get wide and he’ll fire the ball in.
“I like his spikiness, that drive he has and the standards that he demands from others.
“And you have to say it’s been ballsy of the manager to reintegrate him into the team when there was obviously a problem between them.”
Ritchie is likely to stay in the team as Newcastle look to further move away from the relegation zone and secure their Premier League status for one more season.
