Newcastle United defender Kieran Trippier looks set for a spell on the sidelines with a foot injury.
The 31-year-old scored the winner against Aston Villa on Sunday, but ended the game in the hospital.
About half an hour after netting a trademark free kick, Trippier was down and replaced by Emil Krafth.
After the game, the England right-back was pictured on crutches and wearing a protective boot. It had Toon fans worrying the worst, and it looks like their fears have become reality.
Daily Mail reporter Craig Hope has provided an update on the situation – and it’s not good news.
He wrote on Twitter: “I’m told Kieran Trippier has broken a bone in his foot & faces spell on sidelines.”
The Athletic back up these claims, and state that he is set to undergo surgery.
Following the reports, the club have now confirmed the news. They state that Trippier has suffered a ‘fracture to the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot’. However, the Daily Mail add that the injury isn’t thought to be season-ending.
Kieran Trippier injury is devastating for Newcastle
The former Atletico Madrid player has become a key component for Eddie Howe in such a short space of time.
His £12million arrival was heralded as a statement signing, and that’s exactly what he’s been. His performances have been exceptional, providing calmness and composure in a team that has often been erratic.
Losing Trippier to injury is a huge blow. He’s played a key role in our recent resurgence, netting two goals in our last two games.
We did a lot of business in January, but Trippier is absolutely our best buy. Losing him so soon after his arrival is crushing.
It puts pressure on his teammates to step up in his absence – we can’t be reliant on one player.
Injuries are really hurting us this season. Callum Wilson’s campaign might be over, and now Trippier is set for a spell on the sidelines with a broken bone in his foot.
Hopefully he isn’t out for too long, but in the meantime the likes of Krafth and Javi Manquillo must step up.
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