Reporter admits he’d be ‘surprised’ if Kieran Trippier starts for Newcastle on Sunday

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Newcastle United are sweating on the fitness of Kieran Trippier after he limped off with an injury on Tuesday night.

The right-back was the star of the show against Everton. His corner led to the Magpies’ equaliser, then his free-kick wrapped up a vital victory.

However, it wasn’t a perfect evening for Trippier. That’s because it came to a premature end due to a calf injury.

The defender was replaced by Javi Manquillo for the latter stages against Everton. Now fans eagerly await an update on the £12million signing’s fitness.

Newcastle face Aston Villa on Sunday, going in search of a hat-trick of Premier League wins for the first time since 2018. But will our star right-back be available to start?

Kieran Trippier might not start against Aston Villa

On the latest episode of Pod On The Tyne, Athletic reporter Chris Waugh spoke about the Trippier injury and his chances of starting at St James’ Park on Sunday.

“Trippier, within his club interview, it wasn’t really mentioned. Howe didn’t mention it too much in other interviews, so hopefully, touch wood, it doesn’t seem to be that serious,” Waugh said.

“At this moment in time, and this on the basis that I haven’t had any more specific information on it today, he was being assessed today, I’d be surprised if he started on Sunday, just on the basis that it’s quite a quick turn around for a muscle injury.”

Newcastle desperately need Trippier on Sunday

Losing Trippier from the starting XI would be a huge blow for Howe. Despite only being at the club for a month, Trippier has become a vital part of how we play.

He’s raised the standards at the club, and makes those around him better with his composure and class.

But it’s a fine line with a muscle injury. Starting him and further aggravating the problem could rule him out for longer. That would be would be devastating.

Hopefully it’s just a minor problem and the 31-year-old is fit and ready to start against Aston Villa. It’s vital, especially with opposite full-back Matt Targett forced to sit the game out against his parent club.