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Gareth Southgate has had squad selection issues ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the chief of which was in the wing-back department with Trent Alexander Arnold, Reece James, Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, Ben Chilwell, and Tyrick Mitchell all fighting for the available slots.
Newcastle vice-captain, Kieran Tripper, made the final cut and will be on the flight to Qatar and while there were inquests into why some other players missed out, there were no question marks about Trippier’s selection.
Eddie Howe has backed Southgate’s decision to select Kieran Trippier as the first-choice right-back. He has spoken highly of the player and feels that he can replicate his club form for the Three Lions.
Trippier was not included in England’s Euro 2020 squad following his betting scandal. However, he has made an impact at St James Park since his arrival from Atletico Madrid.
A mainstay with the Magpies, his presence at the back has been crucial in the club’s battle for the top four. With England taking on the challenge of Iran, USA and Wales, his defensive instincts will help them more in addition to the attacking overloads he helps with.
Howe hailed the 32-year-old’s impact with the Magpies since his return from injury. Trippier has been integral to Newcastle’s recent success, contributing in all phases of their time on the pitch.
“It’s difficult to put into words what Kieran has done for us, really,” reflected Howe. “Last season, his impact was huge and then we lost him to injury, which was a devastating blow at the time, but he played his part behind the scenes for us.
“He really did help the players, came to all the games and really supported us through our battle to stay in the league, and no one was more pleased than him that we were able to do that.
“This season, I think he’s just been incredible for us on the pitch. He’s made a brilliant contribution in all our phases, whether that’s attacking or defending, and his leadership skills have been high-class, so I couldn’t be happier with Kieran. I wish him all the best during the World Cup with England, and I look forward to being able to cheer him on.”
🌟 Highest rated Premier League players heading into the World Cup break:
1️⃣ Erling Haaland – 7.90
2️⃣ Kevin De Bruyne – 7.76
3️⃣ Kieran Trippier – 7.60
4️⃣ Gabriel Jesus – 7.59
5️⃣ Harry Kane – 7.47 pic.twitter.com/d7TKtFduay— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) November 14, 2022
Newcastle in prime position for top-four rally
In addition to Trippier, Newcastle will have four players getting World Cup experience in Qatar. Nick Pope and Callum Wilson will be joining the English contingent, while Fabian Schar will be in the Switzerland camp. Elsewhere, Bruno Guimaraes will represent favourites Brazil at the quadrennial footballing event.
The World Cup affords a break for Howe and Newcastle to reassess their situation. They have punched above their weight and have the third place in the Premier League to their name.
The long hours put in the off-season have paid off as they trail Manchester City by only three points. With both Arsenal and City providing far numerous personnel for national teams in Qatar, the Magpies will have a much-rested squad after the World Cup.
What a moment! 😍 pic.twitter.com/CEMtgjn4fc
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) November 12, 2022
Moreover, without European action to distract them, Howe’s men will have more time to handle their fixture schedule and fight for their ambitions.
All the while Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea, the bulk of the current top-eight will be busy in various UEFA competitions in addition to domestic tournaments as well as the Premier League.
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