Eddie Howe Surprised By Kieran Trippier’s Exit Rumours

Newcastle United manager, Eddie Howe, said he was surprised by reports that Kieran Trippier wants to leave the Premier League club, and praised the defender’s professionalism since his return from EURO 2024.

Trippier returned to Newcastle late after representing England in the European Championship and did not participate in the 1-0 Premier League win against Southampton on Saturday.

The 33-year-old England international, who was rumored to be making a surprising move to Bayern Munich in January, was not included in the starting for last Saturday’s Premier League opener, Southampton.

Tinoramento filled his defensive, while midfielder, Bruno Guimaraes captained the team.

“He’s trained well since he came back from the Euros I think he’s only had two weeks of training, hence the reason why he didn’t start last week,” Howe told reporters on Friday.

“The situation is business as usual, Tripps has trained well this week. I’m surprised by a lot of the stories that have come out. (He’s) a valuable member of the squad. His professionalism has been first class.”

Trippier, who joined the Magpies in a bargain £ 12 million transfer from Atletico Madrid in January 2022, has been the figurehead for a resurgence that saw Newcastle reach the 2023 Carabao Cup final and play Champions League football last season.

Howe said, “He’s played a huge role in changing the narrative around the team. When he first came in, we were in a very difficult position and it’s easy to forget that.

“He took a big risk to leave a huge football club and was having a successful period with them to come to a team battling relegation.

“Our relationship with him was pivotal, and he galvanized the squad from the first day. His performances on the pitch also spoke volumes.”

Trippier, who featured in six of England’s seven matches at EURO 2024, has been connected with a move to Everton, where he could reunite with manager Sean Dyche, with whom he spent three years at Burnley

“I’m not sure where this has come from. He’s preparing as we all are for the game on Saturday,” Howe added.

“His leadership skills, his ability with the ball, his assist record, everything he brings to the group we want here.”

Newcastle travel to Bournemouth on Sunday. Bournemouth began their campaign with a 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest.