Newcastle United defender Kieran Trippier has opened the door to a remarkable U-turn.
The 35-year-old has been a key player for Newcastle United this season, with the Magpies his only responsibility. That has been the case since the summer of 2024, with Kieran Trippier retiring from international duty after Euro 2024.
The defender won 54 England caps and played in three major tournaments, but has not represented the Three Lions since the Euro 2024 semi-final victory over Netherlands.
However, there is a chance that Trippier could come out of international retirement ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
He spoke to Sky Sports News about possibly playing for England again, saying: “Who knows? If I get the call I’d never turn down the opportunity. At the moment I am retired, but never say never. If I get the call, I will always be there.”
Kieran Trippier recall would be bad news for Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall
Thomas Tuchel could certainly benefit from a player like Trippier given his ability and big-game experience. However, an England return for the £12million man would be bad news for two of his Toon teammates.
Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall are at the beginning of their England careers, but will have aspirations of going to the 2026 World Cup. Livramento has been backed to start by Ian Wright, while Hall will hope to make his case following his return to fitness.
But the chance of them featuring could be hindered by a potential Trippier return.
Tuchel has already shown a willingness to turn to experience, with Jordan Henderson featuring in his side. Trippier could provide the same qualities in defence, while the fact Tuchel’s priorities are only short-term must be taken into consideration as well.
While Gareth Southgate managed England for years, Tuchel was only brought in for the 2026 World Cup. That could see him pick players with only the present in mind rather than the future, which could open the door for a Trippier recall.
England return unlikely for Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier
In truth, it feels unlikely that Trippier will be handed an England return.
The Three Lions have a lot of options at right-back, with Livramento competing with the likes of Reece James, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker and Jarell Quansah.
While Trippier can play on the left too, there are also multiple options for Tuchel to consider out there, such as Hall, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Djed Spence and Luke Shaw.
For Trippier, his focus should be on Newcastle United and the volume of games they have to play.
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