Newcastle United’s hopes of having Kieran Trippier fit to face Sunderland on Saturday are going to go down to the wire.
It remains unclear whether or not the 33-year-old will be involved in the FA Cup clash at the Stadium Of Light, having picked up an injury during the Boxing Day defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Kieran Trippier then missed the trip to Anfield on January 1st, with Eddie Howe unclear on when the defender would be available again.
It was reported during the week that Trippier is hoping to be available for the game against Sunderland, which will be the first Tyne-Wear derby since 2016.
It is a must-win game for Howe, who will be picking a full strength team to take on the Magpies’ biggest rivals. However, it is still not known if he will be able to call upon Trippier.
Eddie Howe unsure if Kieran Trippier will face Sunderland
Ahead of the FA Cup clash with Sunderland, Howe spoke to the media and provided an injury update on Trippier.
“We are going to give him [Trippier] a late test today and see where he is tomorrow,” he said.
Newcastle desperately need Kieran Trippier to be fit
A late fitness test appears to be what will determine if Kieran Trippier can play against Sunderland.
It would be a huge blow if he was ruled out, as he is one of our most important players. While he has been struggling for form as of late, he is a player who makes those around him better.
Trippier is one of the most experienced players at Newcastle right now, and has the right type of mentality to succeed in a game like this.
If the £12million man is unavailable, it will likely mean that Tino Livramento continues at right-back. It could also mean that Dan Burn continues as captain, which would be an incredible honour for the local lad and boyhood Toon fan.
But Trippier has not been ruled out yet, and we are keeping everything crossed that he can be passed fit to start on Saturday.
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