Allan Saint-Maximin grabbed the headlines after Newcastle’s 3-1 win over Everton in midweek and it was clear to see why – even without scoring.
But Kieran Trippier sealed the win with an outstanding free-kick – his first goal for Newcastle – and has also earned praise from Eddie Howe.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has conducted his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa.
Howe offered a fitness update on Trippier as well as hailing his performance against Frank Lampard’s Toffees.
“We don’t think it’s a long term injury but we’ll have to make a late call on him,” said Howe.
“He’s been so important for us in recent games. I thought he was outstanding against Everton, highlighted by his free-kick.”
“Apart from Kieran, we have no fresh injury concerns. Paul Dummett is getting closer and Fede Fernández is making good progress but still hasn’t trained with the group.”
Trippier being fit for the clash with Steven Gerrard’s men would be a huge boost after his midweek performance.
That is especially pertinent because the other full-back Howe signed during the January window, Matt Targett, cannot play against his parent club.
Trippier could even be an option to replace Targett at left-back, although it would not be particularly logical for Howe to make two changes to the shape of his back four.
Trippier did play at left-back for England at Euro 2020, when they kept a clean sheet against Croatia in the opening game of the tournament.
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