Newcastle United had stars all over the pitch in their 3-1 victory over Everton as Eddie Howe's side put on an excellent second half performance to blow the Toffees away.
Allan Saint-Maximin got the plaudits for his attacking display but another man who deserved huge credit was the Magpies first signing of the January transfer window, Kieran Trippier.
The full back put in an all-action display and capped it with a brilliant goal from a free-kick to make the game safe at 3-1.
Speaking on BT Sports after the game ex-Newcastle player, Rob Lee praise Trippier for his attitude since joining the club:
"He’s a leader. He’s a leader not only on the pitch, but off it as well. It’s the way he plays, I thought he was sensational and I think he has been outstanding in every game since he joined," said Lee.
"He has great energy, gets up and down the pitch, defends well. He is the ultimate full-back and has made a huge impact since moving to Newcastle."
There was a renewed energy amongst players and fans against Everton as the whole club had been buoyed by the recent win against Leeds United as well as the late January signings of Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn. Whilst the fans regularly chanted 'Bruno' in anticipation of seeing their new Brazilian midfielder make his debut from the bench, it was Trippier who continued to lead by example on the pitch.
The club took their first steps away from the relegation battle by winning against Everton and when tougher games come, they will continue to rely on the leadership and quality of Trippier in order to ensure they don't fall back into trouble.
