Eddie Howe hails Kieran Trippier and speaks about his ‘special relationship’ with Newcastle defender

Eddie Howe believes Kieran Trippier is exactly what Newcastle needed in the transfer window last month.

The England right-back has been a revelation at St James’ Park since his £12million move from Atletico Madrid in January.

Two free-kick goals by Trippier against Everton and Aston Villa helped the Magpies climb out of the relegation zone - an unbelievable feat given where the club was just over a month ago.

Howe has credited the 31-year-old’s attitude as a key reason behind Newcastle’s recent turnaround.

“When he was fit, I thought he was absolutely outstanding,” he told Football Focus.

“And when you're in the position that we were in you need leaders, you need characters and you need people that are willing to fight and from day one.

“He rolled his sleeves up and he was one of the guys that he was wanting to make a difference.

“I have a special relationship with him and really admire him.

“We’re gonna miss him a lot, there’s no doubt about that. But he's with us every step of the way.”