Insane Kieran Trippier stat highlights importance to Newcastle United under Eddie Howe

Newcastle United talisman Kieran Trippier ranks second in the Premier League for the most chances created this season.

Despite playing at right-back, the 33-year-old has made 60 goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates in 2023-24. Only Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes (62) has contributed more.

Another assist against Luton Town took Trippier’s tally to nine for the campaign - one behind Ollie Watkins who leads the Premier League charts. The England international also bagged the third goal to kick-start Newcastle’s fightback in the second half.

But it is his all-round creativity that has made a difference to the Magpies since his arrival two years ago. Trippier has 20 assists to his name from 84 appearances - a formidable return for a defender.

This season alone, his chances created rank him above the likes of Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Mohamed Salah. He also has 14 more than Manchester City star Phil Foden - widely considered England’s most creative player.

Figures from social media account @TheOther14 highlight Trippier’s importance to Newcastle despite a downturn in form over Christmas. The defender was at fault in defeats at Everton and Chelsea on the road - missing a penalty at Stamford Bridge as the Magpies were dumped out of the Carabao Cup.

Interest from Bayern Munich materialised in January but Newcastle swiftly rejected two advances. Trippier confirmed the approaches from Germany but insisted he remained committed to United.

“As a player, I’ve never requested to leave,” he said. “I’m committed to the club. I had a lot of talks with the manager, the owners, my teammates… nothing changed.

“I want to give everything for the club (Newcastle). My commitment has never changed from the first day I arrived until now. It’s a huge club, with a fantastic manager and players there also.

“They’re one of the biggest clubs in the world. But I came back because my family found it difficult in Spain. I’m comfortable, happy here and have an unbelievable relationship with the manager (Howe).”