Kieran Trippier delivers classy message as Newcastle win 2-1 vs Rangers

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Newcastle United spoiled the party as Rangers paid tribute to Allan McGregor on Tuesday night.

Ibrox was sold out for the goalkeeper’s testimonial, with Eddie Howe‘s side given the honour of facing Rangers on McGregor’s special night.

He received a standing ovation when he was substituted in the first half, and was declared the man of the match over PA system as both sides played out the final few minutes.

While McGregor took to the field at the final whistle to take in the applause, it was the Toon fans who were celebrating. Harrison Ashby’s late header made it 2-1 to the Magpies, meaning Newcastle have won their opening two pre-season friendlies.

It was a neat header from the defender, who scored the decisive goal of the game thanks to some brilliant work from Alexander Isak.

It is a good win for Newcastle, but Rangers were more concerned about paying tribute to the veteran in between the sticks. And after the game, Toon captain Kieran Trippier joined in with the tributes to the 41-year-old.

Kieran Trippier’s message to Allan McGregor

Following the win over Rangers, Trippier took to Instagram to comment on the victory. He also delivered a message to McGregor on his special night.

He wrote: “A good performance and always a positive to maintain winning ways. Congrats on your testimonial @greegsy1 an incredible career.”

Important win for Newcastle

As Trippier says, it is important for Newcastle to maintain that winning feeling. If we are going to replicate last season, we need to make it a habit once again.

While it is only pre-season, picking up wins and knowing how to see out games is vital. It will breed confidence, and is also important for the young player who are getting a chance to impress.

For Trippier, he continues to lead by example, and enjoyed a bright 45 minutes at Ibrox. He started at right-back, and rekindled his excellent partnership with Miguel Almiron, who scored the opening goal of the game.

We also saw Trippier link up with Sandro Tonali, who produced a solid display on his first night in a Toon shirt. Their connection will be important this season, especially if Howe plans to use the Italian in the right centre-midfield role.

That side of the pitch is very strong for Newcastle, and that is largely down to the influence of Trippier.