Pundit tips ‘brilliant’ Newcastle United star to fill Trippier void after what he’s seen
Matt Targett has the quality to stabilize the Newcastle United defence after Kieran Trippier’s injury blow.
That’s according to former Leeds United stopper Paddy Kenny, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the “brilliant” right-back.
Newcastle confirmed on transfer deadline day (31 January) that they had signed Targett from Aston Villa until the end of the season.
He has now made two appearances for the club, playing the full 90 minutes in a win over Everton (8 February) and a draw against West Ham (19 February).
On Monday (14 February) it was revealed Trippier will miss Newcastle’s “upcoming fixtures” after fracturing the fifth metatarsal in his left foot.
Kenny has backed Targett to fill the void left by Newcastle’s first January signing.
“Trippier’s injury is a blow but there is more quality there,” Kenny told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“Targett is a brilliant player, I really like him. He had a very solid debut against Everton.
“It’s made them stronger and that’s what Newcastle needed. I think Targett is really underrated.
“I was surprised Villa let him go but it makes sense when you sign a player like Lucas Digne.
“If Targett stays fit, he can be a big player for Newcastle and can kind of fill the hole left by Trippier.
“He is experienced and he’s a cracking footballer. He will do well at Newcastle.”
Newcastle are next in action against Brentford on Saturday (26 February).
As it stands, the Magpies are unbeaten in six league games and are out of the relegation zone.
In other news, pundit claims Kieran Trippier injury blow could have been even worse for Newcastle United.