Until that game against Everton, Kieran Trippier had barely put a foot wrong in a Newcastle United shirt.
While there was the odd blip, pretty much everything Kieran Trippier touched turned to gold. He has been a transformative signing at St James’ Park – the most important since the change of ownership.
His impact both on and off the pitch has been seismic, while he has been able to play the best football of his career under the guidance of Eddie Howe.
However, something has changed in recent weeks. Trippier is suddenly struggling, and key errors are costing Newcastle.
Kieran Trippier has made a lot of mistakes for Newcastle lately
First it was Everton. He was at fault on two occasions at Goodison Park, as the Magpies slumped to a heavy 3-0 defeat.
Then it was Tottenham. The 33-year-old was given the run around, with Son Heung-Min making it a very uncomfortable afternoon for the England international.
Now it is Chelsea, with Trippier’s error in stoppage time denying Newcastle a place in the Carabao Cup semi finals. His misery was compounded even further when he missed his spot kick in the penalty shootout.
Seeing Trippier struggle so much is tough to watch. He has been so good in black and white, which makes his recent mistakes all the more puzzling.
The defender has received support from the manager and co-owner Jamie Reuben, and he will need even more support when he next runs out at St James’ Park.
But before then we take on Luton Town at Kenilworth Road, and it is clear what Howe must do with Trippier.
Eddie Howe should rest Trippier vs Luton Town on Saturday
Newcastle face Luton on Saturday, and it is probably for the best that Trippier starts on the bench.
He has been forced to play so much football this season that he desperately needs a break. The only game he has completely missed was Saturday’s win over Fulham, and that was because he was suspended.
But his mistakes against Chelsea hint that something still isn’t right with Trippier, who could really benefit from a brief spell on the sidelines.
Newcastle have enough cover to be able to deal with benching Trippier. Tino Livramento can operate on the right, with Dan Burn’s return meaning that he does not have to play on the left.
The Magpies have also been boosted by the return of Sven Botman, who could potentially start at centre-back if Fabian Schar is not deemed fit for the trip to Luton.
While benching Trippier might be a risk, it is perhaps what he needs. It will allow him to recharge his batteries before Boxing Day, when Newcastle take on Nottingham Forest at St James’ Park.
That is when he should return to the starting XI, when he should be boosted by a raucous Toon Army wrapping their arms around him and showering him with the support he needs.
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