The footballing world is paying tribute to Newcastle United defender Kieran Trippier following his announcement on Thursday.
In the aftermath of Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup win over Nottingham Forest, the 33-year-old has confirmed that he has retired from international duty and will no longer be available for selection for England.
Kieran Trippier won 54 caps for his country, and has been involved in some of England’s greatest ever moments.
His final appearance for the Three Lions was the Euro 2024 semi-final, helping Gareth Southgate’s side make it all the way to the final by beating Netherlands. Sadly for Trippier, he lost his place in the side for the final, which England lost 2-1 to Spain.
Trippier also appeared in the Euro 2020 final, getting the assist for Luke Shaw as England took the lead against Italy. Unfortunately, Southgate’s side could not hold on, and eventually lost to Italy on penalties at Wembley.
The Newcastle United right-back also had an incredible moment at the 2018 World Cup, scoring a stunning free-kick in the semi-final defeat to Croatia. Trippier made the nation believe, and was a key part of the group of players that nearly brought football home under Southgate.
Now there has been a change of manager, and Trippier paid tribute to Southgate after he confirmed his departure.
Kieran Trippier announces England retirement
Now Trippier is gone as well, having confirmed his international retirement on his official Instagram page.
The defender has released a lengthy statement, thanking Southgate and his teammates, as well as wishing Lee Carsley good luck. He is now the interim England manager, and has announced his squad for the upcoming Nations League games against Finland and Republic of Ireland.
Trippier will not be involved in those games, as he reflects on an incredible England career.
He wrote: “I never thought as a young lad from Bury that I would play for my country let alone achieve 54 caps. It’s been one of the biggest honours of my life to represent my country at 4 major tournaments.”
Major names pay tribute to Kieran Trippier after England announcement
Since the announcement, Trippier has been inundated with messages of congratulations for what was a fabulous international career.
A plethora of famous faces have commented on his Instagram post, including Newcastle teammates Bruno Guimaraes and Joe Willock.
Bruno called Trippier an ‘example to everyone’, while Willock thanked the former Tottenham player for ‘giving our country so many memories’.
There were also messages from the likes of Alan Shearer, Ian Wright, Mehrdad Ghodoussi, Jordan Henderson, Harry Maguire, James Maddison and Declan Rice.
Ian Wright wrote: “Gave us so many great memories. Congratulations KT.”
Mehrdad Ghodoussi posted: “You personify everything that is great about football. An incredible player and a true professional.”
Three Newcastle United players named in latest England squad
While Trippier’s England career is over, the Three Lions are preparing to return to action.
Lee Carlsey has named his first squad as manager, ahead of the upcoming Nations League games in September.
His squad includes three Newcastle United players, one of which is Anthony Gordon. He has retained his place in the squad, despite only making one appearance at the Euros.
Elsewhere, Nick Pope is back in the squad, while there is a first ever callup for Tino Livramento.
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