Kieran Trippier has lavished praise on Newcastle United new boy, Sven Botman, and how he ‘commands the ball’, as he told Sky Sports.
Newcastle are in Austria for their pre-season training camp and it seems as though the club’s new defender is impressing Trippier.
Following the new Saudi takeover, Eddie Howe and Co. have well and truly changed the backline at St James’ Park from the one that was deployed under Steve Bruce.
Even though Dan Burn and Fabian Schar built a strong partnership at the back towards the end of last season, it’s highly likely that Botman takes one of their places.
If that’s the case, then the highly-rated Dutchman will be lining up alongside Trippier next season and this is what the Englishman had to say about his new teammate from their pre-season camp in Austria.
“It’s always important bringing two quality players in (Pope and Botman),” said Trippier. “I know Nick (Pope) very well from England. I know what to expect from him. He is a great keeper.
“Sven has settled in straight away. The way he plays and the way he commands the ball. These are great additions to the group. And the players around them will step up.”
WHERE WILL NEWCASTLE FINISH NEXT SEASON?
Given the limelight on Newcastle now, a lot are wondering just what the club can achieve next season and whether they can get into Europe.
That’s the long-term aim of the Saudi-owned club, but can they reach that goal within one season.
Winning the Premier League title is still a pipe dream, but perhaps the most realistic choice of road for the Magpies to go down is trying to win a domestic trophy.
The Toon Army faithful would more than accept a trophy win and a bottom-half table finish if they can be guaranteed that next season.
With the quality and depth Howe can work with now, it’s something the Magpies have to aim for because there are a lot of expectant fans now.
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