Not just Harvey Barnes & Sandro Tonali - Newcastle United must start this 'quality' player vs Fulham
Ask Newcastle United fans for the starting XI they’d like to see at Fulham on Saturday and most - if not all - would include Harvey Barnes and Sandro Tonali. But the same probably can’t be said for Kieran Trippier.
Trailing 1-0 to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday, Eddie Howe’s substitutions helped flip the game on its head. Barnes, of course, received the most plaudits for his stunning winner while Tonali benefitted from more minutes on what was his second Premier League appearance after 10 months out.
Barnes, Tonali and Joe Willock were subbed on at half-time but it wasn’t until Trippier’s introduction on the hour-mark when United started to build towards their comeback.
“You can’t underestimate what Kieran gives you,” said Howe. “A lot has been said about the substitutes at half-time, and they all had a positive impact on the game, but when Kieran came on, you could just feel his quality, whether that was his quality on the ball or his set-play delivery.
“Whatever aspect of his game transfers to the team, it makes a positive difference. We felt stronger when he came onto the field, certainly when we had the ball. I’m delighted with him. He looks fitter, and mentally, I think he’s in a good place. He’s got such an important part to play for us this season.”
Trippier’s cameo was near identical to the one at AFC Bournemouth last month. Newcastle were behind 1-0 but the right-back’s qualities - whether that be his leadership, experience or his top-class ability - helped his side clinch a point.
“You could see his experience and technical quality which I know I talk about a lot but there are very few full backs with his ball-playing and crossing delivery,” said Howe afterwards. “He really helped us today, calmed things down and used his experience and brought a renewed threat with Anthony down our right side.
“I love Kieran as a footballer, I always have. I’ve managed him twice, which I’ve been very lucky to do.”
What Trippier brings - a reminder that he got 11 assists last season - seems to have been forgotten by a lot of people outside the St James’ Park walls. That may be down to the expectation/ talk of him leaving this summer but it’s no secret why Howe was desperate to keep him.
Picking between Tino Livramento and Trippier is no easy task. Livramento is the future, not just for Newcastle but England too, and needs games to develop. Meanwhile, 33-year-old Trippier has been there and done it but still has more to give.
Right-back is one of the squad’s strongest positions but at Craven Cottage this weekend, Trippier should get the nod.