Stuart Pearce has raved about Newcastle United duo, Kieran Trippier and Dan Burn, ahead of their visit to West Ham United on Saturday, as he told talkSPORT.
The West Ham coach claimed that Trippier, who he worked with at Man City and England, has been a ‘really big influence’ on Newcastle, whilst Burn looked ‘very good’ on his debut against Aston Villa.
Newcastle travel to the capital on the back of three wins on the bounce, so their spirits will be high.
There is the downside of Trippier not being available after his injury against Villa, but the mood in the camp is a lot different to what it was six weeks ago.
Ahead of the game, ex-Newcastle defender, Pearce, shared his thoughts on the Magpies and the job Eddie Howe has done.
“They have turned it around,” said Pearce. “Credit to Eddie for this. I think he has done a really good job since he has gone in there.
“I think a couple of the players they have signed have given the club a big lift. I watched the game at the weekend and Dan Burn was very good at the heart of their backline.
“Obviously, Tripps getting the goal and he will be out at the weekend. He’s had a major influence around the dressing room. Fantastic kid as well.
“I have worked with Tripps in times gone by at Man City and England. He is a really big influence. And the big centre-forward, Woods, coming in as well. They will be a tough prospect at the weekend.”
There is a lot riding on this game because West Ham are chasing those Champions League spots and the Magpies are still hovering about the drop zone.
The long term aim of those at St James’ Park is to get back towards the top end of the table, and in truth, the Irons are a prime example that it can happen next season.
David Moyes’ side went from surviving relegation after project restart to finishing in the Europa League the following season and now they are pushing for a top-four spot.
So, if the big pockets of Newcastle stay up, then they might just make some serious noises next season.
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