Bruno Guimaraes played for Brazil on Monday, and Kieran Trippier played for England on Tuesday. Newcastle United truly are on the international stage now.
Trippier ended a six-year spell without a Toon player representing the Three Lions last night. He played the full game as Gareth Southgate’s side drew 1-1 with Germany in the Nations League.
It was a first international appearance since October 2021 for the 31-year-old, and the first time a Newcastle player had represented England since Andros Townsend came on as a substitute against Australia in May 2016.
It’s very much a sign of the times at Newcastle, with bigger names arriving since the completion of the Saudi-backed takeover.
Trippier was the first player to sign following the change of ownership, and it truly was a statement of intent.
He’s been a leader since his £12million move, with not even injury limiting his impact. His attitude has been incredible, and it’s exactly the same for England.
Trippier willing to play anywhere for England
While he’s predominantly a right-back, Southgate has deployed Trippier on the left of defence from time to time. He did it last night against Germany, but it didn’t bother the Newcastle defender.
After the game, he spoke to Sky Sports about his position.
“It doesn’t bother me where I play on the pitch,” he said.
“My teammates know, the coach knows that I’ll always be ready if I play. If I don’t play I’ll always be an influence around the dressing room.
“I’ll always be ready if I’m called upon, if it’s right-back or left-back. I’ll always be ready to do my country proud and give 100%.”
Trippier’s comments won’t shock Toon fans
Trippier’s England stance is exactly what we’ve seen during his short time at Newcastle.
He joined the Magpies on January 7th, back when we were still in the relegation zone. To sign for the club then already proved that he was up for the fight – it certainly wasn’t going to be a holiday.
He quickly established himself as a leader and a star player, with key goals against Everton and Aston Villa.
However, injury struck and his season was basically over. Trippier didn’t return until the final three games of the campaign, but his influence didn’t wane.
The Magpies’ number 15 continued play a part on the sidelines, following the team home and away despite donning a pair of crutches.
We’ve got a player who is willing to do whatever it takes. He’ll play wherever he’s asked to, and he’ll help as best he can even if he’s not in the team. We saw him barking orders to teammates against Arsenal when he was warming up as a substitute.
Trippier has set the new standard at St James’ Park. People must step up to his level as he certainly won’t be lowering it.
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