Kieran Trippier has claimed that he is a ‘much better player’ since leaving Tottenham, as he told Newcastle United TV.
The 31-year-old returned to the Premier League this week when he was the new signing of the Saudi-led Newcastle era.
Trippier returned after three years away, after helping Atletico Madrid win the La Liga title following his move from Spurs in 2019.
There will probably still be some Spurs fans who think that they haven’t replaced the England international because he has been a huge miss in north London.
But, the player himself, explained why he has improved so much during these past few years.
“I feel I am a much better player than when I left Tottenham,” said Trippier. “Diego Simeone is a very good manager.
“He helped me with my defensive side. I feel like I have matured a lot since I arrived in Madrid.
“I was playing with good players and as a manager he was unbelievable. An absolute joy to play for and a privilege.”
From playing for the Spanish champions to losing to League One side Cambridge United in the FA Cup, it hasn’t been the start Trippier wanted at St James’ Park.
Whilst the Englishman’s signing is a statement from Newcastle given what he has done in recent years, it’s not enough for Eddie Howe’s men.
When you have one win in the Premier League all season and a near full-strength side just got knocked out by a third-tier team in the FA Cup, then that really says it all.
But this is where the January transfer window is going to become very crucial for those in black and white because they need more Trippier-like purchases.
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