Eddie Howe delivers update on Kieran Trippier as 35-year-old forced to keep going through hectic schedule
Kieran Trippier is out of contract at the end of this season, but that hasn't diminished his importance at Newcastle United in any way.
Indeed, the former England full-back feels more crucial to the side than ever of late, given that he's being asked to play in back-to-back games, as Newcastle's fixture schedule never relents.
In an ideal world, we're sure that Eddie Howe would prefer to use the 35-year-old far more sparingly to give him ample time to recover, but the fixtures combined with the number of injuries in the squad have made that impossible.
And still, despite his age, Trippier keeps on going. His legs have clearly gone, and he struggles when up against wingers with pace, but with that, his positioning sense and reading of the game has made it so he can still keep up in other ways.
Eddie Howe is pleased with Kieran Trippier's contribution this season
Eddie Howe couldn't speak highly enough of Trippier in his press conference on Friday morning ahead of the trip to Villa Park on Saturday.
"It has been a difficult period for him, the ground he is expected to cover and the games we are playing. Kieran’s appetite and hunger for success is there, he looked good athletically, his leadership with the back four was outstanding.
"I am very pleased with him; he is such an important player for us. There is big expectation on him to deliver."
Kieran Trippier has left the door open to return to the England set up
Trippier must be feeling good in himself as he recently spoke about making himself available for Thomas Tuchel and England for the World Cup if he was needed.
We wouldn't be at all surprised to see Trippier handed another contract by Newcastle at the behest of Eddie Howe. He may have to convince the likes of Ross Wilson to do it, but we know that Howe would give him a new deal in a heartbeat.
After losing Jamaal Lascelles, it may not be the worst idea to keep Trippier around. We don't want to break up that leadership team too much. Plus, we'd love Trippier to stay on a coach, and that seems easier to do if he's still at the club as a player when he hangs up his boots.
