Newcastle United star jumps to the defence of former Sunderland man

Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier has given his backing to a North East rival after a difficult night on international duty for England on Friday.

Jordan Henderson’s move to the Saudi Pro League from Liverpool is still causing friction in the stands at least, but his manager and team mates are standing by the ex-Sunderland player amid boos and jeers when his name was read out before the match and each time he touched the ball in the friendly win over Australia.

Gareth Southgate claied to not understand why it was happening, pointing to Henderson’s impressive performances throughout his England career but seemingly forgetting the fact that the move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq flew in the face of the midfielder’s highly-publicised pro-LGBTQ+ stance while captaining Liverpool.

Now Trippier, too, has thrown his weight behind Henderson, describing his international team mate as “a great leader, an unbelievable person”.

“I’m going to be honest I didn’t even notice it. I was obviously focused on coming on,” said Trippier of the reception Hnderson got from supporters. “But, listen, Hendo has how many caps? 80 odd caps I think it is that he’s represented England. For me, I see him on daily basis, he is an unbelievable character, he’s a leader. What he does for the team, playing or not playing.

“To be honest with you, I didn’t even recognise the reception because obviously I’m focused on my job to help the team cross the line and win. But for me all I can say on Hendo is he’s a great leader, an unbelievable person to have in the dressing room and I think 80 caps plus speaks for himself.

“On and off the pitch he’s a winner, the way he demands in training, the way he demands in games, in the dressing room before the games. He makes sure everyone trains properly, he sets standards and even myself at 33, when I look at him I follow it.

“That’s what you need. Hendo has got everything, he’s a great captain. So, to be honest, don’t think I need to say much about Hendo’s leadership.”