Kieran Trippier sets 'high standards' for his Newcastle United team-mates to follow in training as he tries to 'lead the group'. That's the view of fellow Magpies defender Matt Targett, who also feels the arrival of 'winners' has led to the dressing room mentality improving 'so much'.
Trippier was the first signing under the club's new owners in January, trading in life with La Liga champions Atletico Madrid for a relegation battle at St James' Park. The England international made an instant impact both on and off the pitch, before a foot injury ruled him out for three months.
Newcastle's stand-in skipper has begun the new season in fine form, and has joined team-mate Nick Pope on international duty for the Three Lions. Fellow January recruit Targett has lifted the lid on the 32-year-old's influence behind the scenes on a daily basis at the club's Benton base.
READ MORE: Newcastle talent admits 584-day wait between appearances was longer than he 'wished for'
He told the club's matchday programme: "You see them as individuals, as professionals - they do everything right, on and off the pitch. You see someone like Trippier, the level he brings every day in training.
"He's on it, he's trying to lead the group, he's making high standards for the people around him. For us, as teammates, to see that and try and follow that is important. That can only make us better as a team, if we all have standards like that.
Eddie Howe's side have earned plaudits for their performances in the new season, but have so far won just once in the Premier League. The Magpies suffered an agonising defeat in injury time at Liverpool, and have been frustrated in successive home draws with Crystal Palace and Bournemouth.
Newcastle have been transformed from a counter-attacking side into a frontfoot outfit under Howe's tenure. Targett has praised the head coach for not only improving the team's performances on the pitch, but for lifting the morale in the dressing room.
When asked about the club's new mentality, Targett explained: "It's improved so much. I feel like over time the mentality's changed. I feel like there are more winners here now, that always want do to their best, so that helps the team.
"I think overall, as a club and as a team, we're in a much better place. We've got a manager who demands so much from us. Every day he wants to improve us. I think we're in good stead."
READ NEXT
Joao Pedro, Newcastle and £30m transfer 'here we go' that never was
Fresh Newcastle United injury setback as Eddie Howe faces potential striker dilemma
Wonderkid tipped for Newcastle January transfer takes 'first step' with impressive cameo
Elliot Anderson urged to target 'next breakthrough' after signing fresh Newcastle contract
Newcastle star praised for 'superb' decision despite stern manager warning
