<p>The 36-year-old will rejoin his ‌former club in a new ‌role after League One side Reading confirmed he had called time ‌on his playing career, ⁠bringing his ‌two-year contract to an early end.</p><p><strong>“AFC ​Bournemouth has always meant a huge amount to ​me, so to return in this capacity is incredibly special,”</strong> ⁠Ritchie said ​in a statement.</p><p>“I’ve spent a long time preparing for what’s next for me after playing, learning ‌from experienced people across the game and developing my understanding of the technical and strategic side of football.“It’s a fantastic opportunity and can’t wait to begin working with the staff, players and ownership group ‌as we continue building for ​the future."</p><p>Ritchie made 142 appearances ‌for Bournemouth, scoring 31 goals. The Scotland international also played for Newcastle United and was part of Champions League ⁠squads.</p>