Newcastle United defender Dan Burn.placeholder image
Newcastle United defender Dan Burn. | Getty Images
Kieran Trippier is set to leave Newcastle United when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Dan Burn has described Kieran Trippier as one of England’s greatest right-backs in an emotional tribute to his Newcastle United teammate.
The 35-year-old announced earlier this month that he will leave the Magpies when his contract expires in June. Trippier was the first player to take the leap of faith and join the Saudi-backed project.
A four-and-a-half-year spell has seen the former Three Lions international become a key driving force in the dressing room. After spearheading Newcastle to Premier League survival, Trippier helped secure two Champions League qualifications and the Carabao Cup.
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‘One of the best’ - Dan Burn
In the club’s matchday programme before Bournemouth, Toon teammate Burn euologised Trippier for his efforts at St James’ Park. He said: “I want to talk about Kieran Trippier, who will leave the club at the end of the season. Honestly, I don’t think anything that’s happened if Tripps hadn’t been here.
“When the takeover happened, there was a lot of talk about players coming in, but until Tripps came and took that risk - and let’s be honest it was a risk, he was playing for Atletico Madrid and winning La Liga - it would have taken someone to make that move. After that, everything fell in place.
“First of all, how good he is as a player. Probably one of the best right-backs this country has ever produced. He’ll be a huge miss as a player but also a person in the training group. He’s a huge influence in the training ground, always keeping people smiling, laughing and joking. A top player but an even better person and I’m very thankful we crossed paths when we did.”
Kieran Trippier farewell message
Announcing his Newcastle departure, Trippier told the club’s media team: "The time has come to leave this amazing club after four-and-a-half years. This is where I have felt most at home.
“It's emotional, and I'm really going to miss it. I want to say a massive thank you to the supporters for all the support through the good and the bad times. You've always supported me, always stood by me.
"To my teammates, it's going to be emotional. It's been an amazing journey with you guys. I'm going to miss you all, but to win a trophy with you guys was really, really special - the best of my career.
"And to the manager, Eddie Howe, all the coaching staff and the team behind the scenes, a massive thank you. The gaffer had the trust - twice - to sign me, gave me the opportunity to represent and captain this great club and most importantly, we managed to win a trophy. I'm going to miss everyone at the club. Thank you."
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