Kieran Trippier believes Newcastle United have adopted a 'similar mindset' to his former club Atletico Madrid and have already proven they are 'difficult' opponents to play against. The England international swapped life with the La Liga champions for a relegation fight on Tyneside in January last year, and has now extended his contract at St James' Park until the summer of 2025.
Eddie Howe's side currently boast the best defensive record in the Premier League so far this season, with the Magpies racking up more clean sheets than goals conceded. Newcastle have often frustrated the so-called 'Big Six' this term, with the head coach admitting his team are aiming to 'compete' rather than become 'popular'.
Jamie Carragher is among the pundits to compare the Magpies newfound approach to the philosophy now embedded at Atletico Madrid under Simeone. Trippier believes the Carabao Cup semi-finalists' dedication on the training ground has helped foster a ruthless defensive mentality throughout the entire squad.
