Paul Merson believes that Tottenham’s Kieran Trippier was the best player at the World Cup.
Paul Merson will have surprised many by naming Tottenham and England defender Kieran Trippier as the best player at this summer’s World Cup.
The major international tournament concluded on Sunday with France winning the elite crown and the individual award for the golden ball went to Croatia and Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric.
However, Sky Sports pundit Merson has selected right-back Trippier as the best player on show at the World Cup, as he helped Gareth Southgate’s side to a fourth-placed finish.
“Kieran Trippier has been outstanding,” he told Sky Sports.
“You look at the other teams. Who played really well for France? Mbappe had about two good games – one against an ageing Argentina – and then scored in the final, but he hasn’t ripped up any trees.
“Modric played well and so did Ivan Rakitic, but overall I don’t think the standard has been amazing. Kids aren’t going to come away and say ‘wow, he’s the best player in the world’.”
Trippier was a mainstay in the Lions starting XI and the best creative source from right wing-back, with many comparing him to legend David Beckham.
The 27-year-old proved his excellent set-piece delivery and even scored a stunning free-kick during the semi-final defeat at the hands of Croatia.
His rise at club level with Spurs has been largely down to manager Mauricio Pochettino and his reputation went to a whole new level at the World Cup after proving his quality.
However, many will surely disagree with Merson’s huge claims about Trippier and feel that he has a long way to go to be considered one of the best full-backs in the business.
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