Noel Whelan says ‘important’ Trippier is a ‘real leader’

Kieran Trippier has had a big impact at Newcastle United despite only joining in January. The 31-year-old impressed immediately after his arrival from Atletico Madrid, but is currently sidelined with a foot injury.

And although Eddie Howe has Emil Krafth and Javier Manquillo who can replace Trippier, the duo don’t compare to the England international. Trippier has missed Newcastle’s last seven games with a fractured metatarsal but is expected to return before the season comes to a close.

Noel Whelan believes it will be a big boost for Newcastle to have him back, telling Football Insider: “He proved just how important he is in the performances after initially coming to Newcastle. His experience, his set-pieces, his presence in the training ground and in the dressing room – he’s a real leader out there.”

Trippier has made four appearances in all competitions for the Magpies this season, scoring two goals. He captained the side in February’s 1-0 win over Aston Villa but hasn’t played since then. Howe’s men are coming off the back of a three-game losing run in the Premier League too, so they desperately need their best team available.

Whelan added: “He’s already won points for Newcastle through his sheer quality, and that’s why they brought him in. He is a massive part of Newcastle already and has already become a real fan favourite. To have him back before the end of the season could be crucial to getting them over the line in terms of safety.”

Newcastle are 15th in the league with 31 points from 30 games, nine clear of the relegation zone but six points adrift of the top-half, so they have to arrest their slide soon.

In other news, Journalists say Matt Targett had a ‘rare off day’ for Newcastle United against Tottenham