
Newcastle United news: Ex-manager claims Kieran Trippier is dazzling with ‘greatness’
Alex McLeish has insisted Kieran Trippier will make the “big difference” for Newcastle United in their survival fight this season.
The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, hailed the 31-year-old’s “brilliant” experience, quality and athleticism.
Trippier stole the show in Newcastle’s 3-1 win over Everton on Tuesday (8 February), scoring a sublime free-kick to round off the scoring.
The January signing has not lost in the league since joining the Magpies as Eddie Howe’s men look to climb out and away from the relegation zone.
McLeish insisted Trippier’s know-how would prove “vital” for Newcastle’s hopes of survival.
McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “We said when he came in he is 31, so as long as he has got legs, then that’s brilliant.
“He knows the pitch off the top of his head. He’s just a guy who knows the game inside out. When you get people with that stature coming to your club, he has still got five or six years left.
“The experience he’s had both for England and his other clubs is absolutely crucial.
“He’s come into Newcastle like he’s been playing there all his life. A level of greatness that elevates the rest of his teammates. I’m not exaggerating, I just always loved getting that experienced player in.
“Trippier brings another element in terms of his athleticism. A great signing. When you’re struggling in the league, bringing in experienced players is vital.
“It’s not about producing a maverick from somewhere that you don’t really know or spending £15-20million on a guy that nobody’s ever heard of.
“If you’ve got a household name, especially a homegrown household name, then that makes the big difference.”

Trippier has played four times for Newcastle so far.
After making his debut against Cambridge, he featured in the draw with Watford and wins over Leeds and Everton.
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