Eddie Howe made big tactical calls on Wednesday night, and they paid off as Newcastle United advanced to the Carabao Cup final.
The Newcastle United manager opted to change his system, shifting to a back five. Eddie Howe wanted to start Sven Botman, and it proved to be the correct decision.
The Dutchman’s inclusion was one of two changes at St James’ Park, with Kieran Trippier replacing Tino Livramento on the right of defence.
That was also the correct call, with Kieran Trippier playing incredibly well against Arsenal. The 34-year-old used all his experience to help the Magpies get over the line, at a time when he is being linked with a move away from Tyneside.
Eddie Howe’s transfer stance on Kieran Trippier
Trippier is a target for Galatasaray, who are eager to sign a right-back before the Turkish transfer window closes on February 11th.
Geordie Boot Boys have been told that Trippier wants to join Galatasaray, but that is certainly not Eddie Howe’s stance.
That is according to the Athletic’s George Caulkin, who has spoken about Trippier’s immediate future on the latest episode of Pod On The Tyne.
“You can absolutely see why there is a different case here than there is with Miguel Almiron and Lloyd Kelly,” he said.
“Trippier is still being linked with a move to Turkey. Their transfer window is still open, but you can just see why right now, at the moment, that would not be the right call, and you can see why Eddie Howe is absolutely desperate to keep him.
“On this form, he stays in the team, for me. I’ve thought that for much of the season, I know injuries have kind of got in the way for him a bit, but I will be playing Kieran Trippier at the minute. He showed every ounce of why he’s been an elite player.”
Eddie Howe is absolutely right about Kieran Trippier
Trippier has been eyeing a move away from St James’ Park since the summer, but he has not been allowed to leave.
That may seem harsh given everything he has done for Newcastle, but Toon officials must continue to put the club first as Galatasaray aim to strike a deal.
The cup win over Arsenal proved how pivotal Trippier is. His experience was invaluable, while he showcased that ruthless and mean streak that was needed in a game of such intensity.
Between now and the end of the season, Trippier will have a big role to play – both on and off the pitch. Newcastle have a cup final to prepare for, while they are still in the FA Cup and competing to qualify for the Champions League.
A big few months are on the horizon, which is exactly why Eddie Howe and Paul Mitchell simply must block Trippier from leaving Newcastle United.
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