Newcastle United continue to pull off huge results this season.
Even amid an injury crisis that only deepened with Nick Pope being forced off of on Saturday, Newcastle beat Manchester United thanks to Anthony Gordon’s goal.
The forward starred even on a wasteful night for some of Eddie Howe’s other attackers, with both Alexander Isak and Miguel Almiron wasting reasonably good chances.
Still, despite that, Newcastle largely dominated the game and could have scored even before Gordon’s goal thanks to Kieran Trippier’s stunning free-kick, which ultimately hit the bar.
Praised for his performance at St James’ Park – just as he was in Paris earlier last week – Trippier continues to get the plaudits.
Indeed, Gary Neville has recently hailed him too.
Kieran Trippier: Gary Neville hails Newcastle star
Speaking on his Sky Sports podcast on YouTube after the game, Neville said the 33-year-old “epitomises” this Newcastle team.
“I always talk about right-backs but Trippier epitomises them,” he said.
“He’s spirited, he’s a fighter, he’s experienced.”
Kieran Trippier: A modern day Newcastle legend
It’s difficult to find the words to describe Trippier at times.
A stunning signing for only £12m, he continues to impress in both an attacking sense and defensively too.
A true leader and someone capable of covering a number of positions, to have the energy and quality to get over a relative dip in form recently all while playing so many big games in a row speaks to the ultimate professional.
Recency bias may play a part and perhaps some fans will prefer right-backs from some of Newcastle’s glory days in years gone by but it’s hard to think of a better player the club have had in that position.
Still going strong even despite his advancing years, he has been a transformative signing both on and off the pitch.
Neville knows his stuff.
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