Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has made an exciting claim about Kieran Trippier.
Trippier joined the Magpies last week from Spanish champions Atletico Madrid for a fee of £12m plus add-ons.
He’s made one appearance to date and it certainly wasn’t a fairytale start.
The England international couldn’t prevent Newcastle falling to a shock FA Cup defeat to League One side Cambridge United.
However, his individual display was decent, with SofaScore giving him a rating of 7.7, the joint-highest of all Newcastle starters with Joelinton, and Howe says his attitude and application have been top class so far.
Howe makes big Kieran Trippier claim
So much so, that the manager is already convinced he’ll prove to be a great buy for the club.
“On the training ground he’s been excellent,” he said [Newcastle United FC Twitter]. “From the first day when he spoke to the group he was hugely impressive.”
“He’s shown a level of maturity and composure we’re going to need going forward.
“I know he’s going to be a great signing for us.”
England international to deliver for Newcastle?
Trippier’s move surprised plenty of people, particularly in Spain, given that he opted to leave a side challenging for silverware for one battling relegation.
However, his actions following the full-time whistle last weekend showed he hasn’t simply moved to the North East for a payday and Howe’s comments about his start to life at the club will no doubt excite Newcastle fans.
The big-money signing of Chris Wood from Burnley earlier this week ensures there will now be a target for Trippier to find with his excellent quality from wide areas and if they click right away, the Magpies could pull clear of the drop zone relatively quickly.
Saturday’s home clash against Watford is an ideal chance to get back to winning ways and Trippier will be one of the first names on the teamsheet.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
