It would be fair to say Newcastle United enjoyed Saturday.
Indeed, while Eddie Howe’s side did not quite have it all their own way against Wolves, they did manage to record a morale-boosting 3-0 victory in the Premier League.
Having also squeezed past Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup earlier this week, it made for a productive few days for the club, albeit having drawn Manchester City away in the quarter-finals does temper that somewhat.
All of Fabian Schar, Tino Livramento and Joe Willock were praised for their performances against Wolves as Newcastle returned to form.
It all, however, wasn’t perfect.
Kieran Trippier was forced off in the second half and Howe has since admitted his injury was a “concern” for the team.
Now, the England international has spoken.
Kieran Trippier injury latest: Newcastle defender speaks
Taking to Instagram after the game, Trippier wrote: “Great win for the team today. Frustrating to go off injured, hopefully it’s nothing too serious.”
Kieran Trippier injury: Chance for Livramento
Trippier at his best will invariably take some replacing. So important to Newcastle’s rebirth under Howe, the veteran has been an excellent signing for £12m.
Still, it would be remiss not to suggest he’s struggled at times this season. Though he’s obviously not alone in that, perhaps an absence can afford him something of a rest.
Livramento, after all, was impressive in his more natural role of a right-back upon his introduction, having previously impressed out on the left. He’s hardly put a foot wrong since his move from Southampton but regular game time has been limited since Newcastle’s defensive injury crisis eased somewhat.
Though it’s not nice to imagine Trippier injured, every cloud has a silver lining. If Livramento can take his chance and run with it, perhaps Howe wouldn’t have to overwork Trippier between now and the end of the season.
Trippier deserves a rest, after all.
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