Kieran Trippier: Newcastle 'blow' could have been 'much bigger' after confirmed news - expert
Paul Robinson has allayed fears Newcastle United will struggle in the absence of Kieran Trippier and Javier Manquillo.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England goalkeeper claimed recent results will make it "easier" for a replacement to settle into the side quickly.
Trippier fractured a metatarsal in his foot during Sunday's 1-0 win over Aston Villa.
As quoted by Sky Sports (18 February), Magpies boss Eddie Howe revealed the right-back is in a fight to be fit before the end of the season after undergoing surgery on the problem.
Newcastle's woes were compounded by the news Javier Manquillo will also be sidelined for Saturday's trip to West Ham.
Emile Krafth is expected to step into the starting XI at the London Stadium.
When asked by Football Insider if Krafth was capable of filling the void, Robinson said: "It's a lot easier now.
"Any player coming in now will feel confident because the team is playing so well. It's easier to come into a winning side as opposed to one struggling.
"The last three results have given Newcastle a real opportunity. They are on a high and they're in good spirits.
"If Trippier had got injured in his first game, it would have been a much bigger blow than it is now. Whoever comes in will do a job in the meantime."
Trippier has made five appearances for the Magpies to date.
He scored vital goals in wins over Everton and Aston Villa.