Bruno Guimaraes responds to four-word Kieran Trippier after Newcastle return
Newcastle United look set to strengthen in a key area which will be good news for Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes.
Guimaraes and Trippier led Newcastle to one of their most successful seasons in the modern era as Eddie Howe‘s side won the EFL Cup in March, the Magpies’ first piece of major silverware since 1955.
The Magpies’ fifth-placed Premier League finish saw them beat Aston Villa to a Champions League place on goal difference on the final day, which has allowed Newcastle to spend big in the transfer window.
Skipper Guimaraes was an ever-present in the Premier League and Trippier played a more bit-part role as Newcastle’s vice-captain, but Howe is now closing in on further reinforcements down the right flank.
Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga is on his way to Newcastle after they struck a £55million deal for the Sweden international, who will likely become their starting right winger ahead of Jacob Murphy.
Trippier sends Newcastle message ahead of pre-season
Newcastle’s return to the Champions League will ensure a packed schedule throughout the first half of next season at least, and Howe will be keen to bulk up his squad depth ahead of a breathless campaign.
Trippier’s starting right-back spot was superseded by Tino Livramento last season before Lewis Hall’s injury saw the Under-21 Euros winner switch sides to the left, but Trippier is keen to re-take his place.
The 34-year-old posted on Instagram (7 July) after his first day of pre-season, after he underwent a spell of warm weather training alongside Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland in Portugal during their time off.
Trippier’s message after Newcastle’s first session said; “Good to be back”, and Guimaraes responded in the comments section with a ‘heart eyes’ emoji.
Newcastle transfer strategy to leave Trippier’s place at risk
Football Insider Verdict
Although Elanga’s arrival will finally provide Howe with the right-wing upgrade he’s needed in recent seasons, the Newcastle manager is also keen to strengthen his backline before the new season kicks off.
Murphy is set to be displaced by Elanga next season, and his prior experience as a right wing-back could be bad news for Trippier with Livramento and Hall being Howe’s prefered full-backs when both are fit.
Newcastle’s long-winded pursuit of Marc Guehi at centre-back could also push Dan Burn back onto the left, and given Howe’s preference to play Livramento on the right flank, it’s no surprise to see Trippier getting a head start on his pre-season preparations.