Simon Jordan has hailed Kieran Trippier for his impact since joining Newcastle United. The 31-year-old was the first signing of the new Saudi-backed era on Tyneside and has quickly become an integral figure in the dressing room.
In Jamaal Lascelles’ absence, Trippier has worn the armband, with Eddie Howe making him de facto club captain as the current skipper’s game time appears limited. Several top-class free-kicks goals have helped endear the England right-back to Toon supporters but his on-field leadership is what stands out most.
Luring Trippier to Tyneside was seen as a coup for Newcastle’s owners as he arrived from La Liga champions Atletico Madrid. Questions were raised over the Magpies’ pulling power but signing a regular Three Lions international helped get the ball rolling in a busy transfer window.
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However, not everyone was convinced by the move. Former Crystal Palace owner Jordan initially had reservations over the deal - questioning Trippier’s motive for joining Newcastle.
“He’s going there for one reason and one reason only,” Jordan told talkSPORT in January. “Because the economic package suits him at this stage of his career - end of discussion.”
The defender’s exploits in a black-and-white shirt have forced Jordan to U-turn on his stance. An impressive run of form and luminary personality has helped sway the 54-year-old’s opinion.
“People like Kieran Trippier have been outstanding,” Jordan said. “People make this observation that I said he was only going for the money. I didn’t say that. I said he wouldn’t be going there if there wasn’t the prerequisite amount of money and opportunity.
“He says he is getting the same money he was getting at Atletico Madrid or less. I would suggest he is getting better opportunities for being at Newcastle for a variety of reasons. Some of them might be economic, some might be longer-term contracts. But notwithstanding that, he has been an absolute revelation.”
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