Kieran Trippier’s absence was massively felt on Sunday when Newcastle United lost to West Ham.
When the starting XI dropped, the big news was Kieran Trippier missing out due to illness. He was not even fit enough to be on the bench, with Emil Krafth continuing at right-back after starting the Carabao Cup win over Spurs.
With no Trippier to rely on, Newcastle were dreadful against West Ham. His experience was a big miss, on an afternoon that saw Sandro Tonali end the game at right-back.
The defeat summed up the 35-year-old’s importance, and the hope is that he will return against Athletic Club in the Champions League.
Kieran Trippier in Newcastle United training ahead of facing Athletic Club in the Champions League.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Kieran Trippier returns to Newcastle United training
Ahead of that game at St James’ Park, Eddie Howe’s players have been working hard at the Newcastle United training ground.
That includes Trippier, who has been spotted taking part in training alongside the rest of the Newcastle United squad on Tuesday.
That is a major boost, especially on the back of the news that Bruno Guimaraes is suffering from illness.
He sat out training with his teammates on Tuesday and is a doubt for the Champions League clash with Athletic club.
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While the Brazil international is at risk of missing out, it would appear that Trippier will be available for selection.
Eddie Howe must start Kieran Trippier vs Athletic Club
If Trippier is available then it is obvious what Eddie Howe must do. The right-back must be restored to the starting XI in place of Emil Krafth.
While the Swede is a reliable defender, he offers nothing offensively. That is a contrast to Trippier, who remains a top level crosser and an intelligent user of the ball despite his ageing legs.
With Dan Burn set to continue at left-back despite Lewis Hall’s return to fitness, Newcastle United need at least one attacking outlet at full-back. Trippier can provide that, on a night where they may also need a new captain.
That will likely be Trippier, who will be tasked with donning the armband should he get the nod to start at St James’ Park. His experience can be so important on another exciting European night, as the Magpies aim to take another giant step towards the next stage of the Champions League.