- Kieran Trippier on the relegation battle
- Newcastle beat West Ham 3-1
- Massive result for Tottenham’s relegation hopes
Kieran Trippier played his last game at St James’ Park as he produced a fantastic display in Newcastle United’s 3-1 win against West Ham United.
Nick Woltemade opened the scoring for the Magpies, while William Osula’s brace either side of half-time gave the home side a commanding three-goal lead.
Taty Castellanos was a constant thorn in the flesh of the Newcastle backline since coming on and deservedly got himself a goal, although it turned out to be nothing but a consolation.
While Newcastle climbed to 11th in the Premier League table, West Ham’s relegation fears were compounded as they suffered a crushing defeat.
And speaking after the game, Trippier feels what happens in the relegation battle doesn’t concern him, even if their win against the Hammers ends up helping out his former club, Tottenham Hotspur.
Trippier makes bold Tottenham admission
West Ham’s defeat means they remain two points behind Tottenham despite playing one more game. And with just one game left to play, Roberto De Zerbi’s side have their destiny in their own hands to avoid the drop.
In fact, if they beat Chelsea on Tuesday, their survival would be confirmed, which would mean West Ham would drop down to the EFL Championship.
After the game, Trippier was asked if Newcastle’s 3-1 win against the Hammers could turn out to be a helping hand for Tottenham.
“We beat West Ham but I don’t want to get into any politics on that side,” responded the Englishman to BBC Sport‘s question. “Whatever happens at the other end of the table happens.”
Eddie Howe lauds Trippier’s Newcastle United impact
Trippier was Eddie Howe and Newcastle United’s first signing under the new ownership in 2022, and it’s safe to say he has been an unwavering success for the club.
After his last appearance at St James’ Park, Howe lavished praise on his ability and professionalism, adding that his presence in the dressing room has been important over the years.
“You never quite know how any transfer will go when you bring a player in,” began Howe.
“I was pretty sure he would help us because I had worked with him before and I knew what we were getting.
“The consistency he has shown. The quality he has shown. The key thing for me, which people probably don’t see, is how he has been really good in the difficult moments.
“There’s been a lot of success but there have been a few choppy times and he has always been a real stable presence in the dressing room.”
Trippier has undoubtedly been one of Newcastle’s best signings in recent years and will be remembered for a long time for his contributions to the club.
