Massive blow for Newcastle in their quest for Premier League safety

As Newcastle United go three for three, collecting nine points in the process, they now lose one of their most important assets in Kieran Trippier. The player who has been one of the best January transfers now faces a lengthy spell on the sideline.

It was another one to savour for all at St. James’ Park on Saturday past when a resurging Magpies outfit took on an in-form Aston Villa. The game, despite ending in 1-0 to the home side, was thrilling and end-to-end action.

The game was decided by another dead-ball special by January newcomer, Kieran Trippier. Since returning to the Premier League, he has been one of the best signings and best-attacking fullbacks.

Kieran Trippier has made his presence felt in the Premier League

From his four starts, he has scored two — both coming from a direct free-kick. Newcastle was lucky not to draw a point only, with Villa having their equaliser chalked off for a VAR overturning for a controversial offside.

But the luck ended there and Eddie Howe, who enjoyed their third win in as many games, lost the goalscorer to a foot injury — as per reports — Trippier suffered a metatarsal break. The length of his spell on the sidelines was not established yet, however, it is forewarned to be a long time without him fit for selection.

"Newcastle are set to be without Kieran Trippier for an extended period after it was confirmed that the defender fractured a bone in his foot during the victory over Aston Villa on Sunday."

Newcastle’s released statement on Kieran Trippier:

"Trippier underwent an X-ray immediately after the game and scans have shown a fracture to the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot,” read a club statement. “Everyone at the club wishes Kieran a speedy recovery. (Via: theguardian.com)"

Will the Magpies be able to cope without Trippier?

Before getting hit with bad luck, Kieran Trippier appeared to be the perfect fit to Howe’s game plan on an attacking front and defensively. Since being involved in the last five games across all competitions, they have conceded three goals, kept two clean sheets, and scored six goals.

As per medical experts, they will have to do without him for approximately 80 days, the equivalent of 10 games, setting his return date to about April. This at least gives him a chance to come back before the season ends and try to force his way into Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad.