Kieran Trippier: Pundit issues ‘devastating’ Newcastle verdict after injury update
Newcastle and Eddie Howe have been dealt a “devastating blow” after Kieran Trippier fractured his foot in the win over Aston Villa.
That is the view of former Leeds striker Noel Whelan, who was speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the 31-year-old’s injury.
Trippier broke down and was substituted in the 48th minute of Newcastle’s 1-0 victory against Aston Villa on Sunday after scoring the game’s only goal (13 February).
The Magpies revealed today (14 February) that the right-back has fractured the fifth metatarsal in his left foot following an X-ray post-game.
Whelan claimed the veteran has been key in “organising and energising” the Newcastle defence.
He insisted Eddie Howe and the St James’ Park faithful will be “praying” for a swift return.
“It’s a devastating blow, because he’s been a leader ever since he walked into the club,” Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He’s got a wealth of experience from what he’s done in the game. Obviously, he’s had a brilliant international career, he’s won the league with Atletico Madrid – and he’s bringing that to Newcastle.
“We’ve seen his quality already from set-pieces which is another string to his bow.
“Eddie Howe and the Newcastle fans will be putting their hands together and praying that he can come back quickly from this injury.
“Kieran Trippier is so important to that Newcastle side. He has been great in organising and energising that defence from a leadership point of view.”
Trippier’s back-to-back free-kick goals have aided Newcastle in stringing together a run of three straight Premier League wins.
The Magpies sit 17th, four points clear of the drop zone.
In other news, medical guru issues verdict on Callum Wilson not playing again for Newcastle this season.