£12m Newcastle player is still set to start vs AC Milan tonight

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One Newcastle United player who has struggled in the last two defeats is still set to start against AC Milan in the Champions League tonight.

Kieran Trippier has been off his game in the most recent defeats to Everton and Tottenham where he made big mistakes to allow the opposition to score.

But despite his struggles, inews say Trippier is expected to start against Milan in what will be one of the biggest games for Newcastle in the last two decades.

Newcastle don’t have a strong alternative

Unfortunately there isn’t really a strong enough alternative to Trippier to select. Tino Livramento is the obvious choice to play right-back but then you’re relying on the inexperienced Lewis Hall to play at left-back, something Howe clearly isn’t too keen on doing just yet.

Trippier has been one of Newcastle’s most consistent players since he signed from Atletico Madrid for £12m in January 2022 and in big games like this you can’t afford to not pick him.

For his experience alone the defender will be key to keeping the team motivated and organised in what should be a very tough Champions League battle.

Though what will worry Newcastle fans is how tired Trippier has looked in his last two games which has led to two big errors against Everton and some poor defending against Tottenham.

What the experienced right-back won’t be doing, however, will be dwelling on these performances and instead will be determined to get things back on track with a brilliant display against the Italian giants tonight.

Trippier’s suspension means he can give his all against Milan

After picking up a fifth yellow card of the season, Trippier will now be suspended for Newcastle’s game against Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

While that may sound daunting at the minute given the number of injuries at the club, it does mean that Trippier will be able to give every bit of energy he has against Milan knowing the he will have a week-long rest before pulling on the Newcastle shirt again.

It’s difficult to remember the last time the former Tottenham and Burnley man had a rest that long after competing in so many competitions and routinely being called up by England, but it will be a welcomed break for him.