Alan Shearer lauded Kieran Trippier after Newcastle United thrashed Chelsea, claiming that the right-back really is the whole package.
Shearer was speaking on Match of the Day after the Magpies beat Mauricio Pochettino’s side 4-1 at St James’ Park to make a real statement.
It is almost easy to forget now but there was real disappointment for Newcastle in their final game before the international break as they were beaten at Bournemouth. Kieran Trippier was, of course, involved in what appeared to be a heated discussion with a supporter at full-time.
Alan Shearer says Kieran Trippier is one of the best in the Premier League
There was even speculation over the future of Eddie Howe over the international break. But judging by Newcastle’s latest display, Howe has got plenty more to give on Tyneside.
Newcastle were sensational to beat Chelsea comfortably. And Trippier had another brilliant day at the office. He should have had an assist for Joelinton, and hit the bar with a superb free-kick.
Alan Shearer has already praised Trippier’s form this season. But he had to single the 33-year-old out for praise once again after the win over the Blues.
“What a season he’s having, when you’re having that many injuries, you’ve got to have your leaders and be huge. And he is doing exactly that,” he told Match of the Day.
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“Sterling, who we know is in good form, he couldn’t get past him. One vs one, he stood up and he took the ball off him. Whether he was covering inside when they were trying to play through balls in just like that on that occasion, or whether it’s delivering balls, there’s not many better in the Premier League at doing it than this guy. The way he puts the pace on it and whips it in there, just like that, that’s exactly where you want it as a forward. And something could have been on the end of that. Set-pieces as well, he really is the whole package. Defending, going forward.”
Newcastle’s game-changing signing
In years to come, the signing of Trippier is going to be seen as a game-changer for Newcastle. Obviously, with the takeover taking place, the club were always going to move up the table at some point.
But before Trippier came on, there appeared to be a good chance that they would fall into the Championship first. Certainly, many questioned why he would want to join the Magpies at that stage.
Not only did Trippier have a huge impact, but his arrival must have encouraged others to follow him through the door.
And that helped set the stage for where Newcastle are now.