Newcastle star Kieran Trippier has announced that he will leave the club at the end of the season. The former England full-back has headed to pastures new and has issued a heartfelt statement confirming his spell on Tyneside is over. The 35-year-old leaves having played a key role in helping the club end a 70-year domestic trophy drought.
Trippier said today: “After four and a half years, it’s time for me to leave this great club. This is where I feel most at home. It’s emotional and I’ll really miss it. I personally want to say a huge thank you to the supporters who have supported me through good times and bad. You have always supported me and have always been on my side.”
“It’s going to be emotional for my teammates. It’s been a great journey with you guys.
“I will miss you all, but winning the trophy with you all was really special and the best of my career.
“And a huge thank you to manager Eddie Howe, all the coaching staff and the team behind the scenes. He trusted me twice to sign me and gave me the opportunity to represent and captain this great club. And most importantly, we won a trophy. I will miss everyone at the club. Thank you.”
Trippier and the club have reached a mutual agreement to announce this news in advance, but no new contract is planned for the former Tottenham and Burnley player, who is now ready for new ventures.
Howe said: “Kieran has been a great asset to us both on and off the pitch. From the moment he walked through the gates, he has helped drive standards that have changed the trajectory of the club. His performances on the pitch have been at the highest level.”
“He builds strong partnerships with the players around him. His excellent technical ability has helped lift the team up, and his strong crossing ability has helped create many goals and chances for his teammates.”
“His leadership skills were invaluable. His experience was calming in difficult moments, and his drive and will to win inspired our players to keep going.”
“While we will soon be saying goodbye to Kieran, we know that he still has a lot to play for this season and that a player of Kieran’s character will do everything he can to end his time here on the best possible note.”
Meanwhile, sporting director Ross Wilson added: “Kieran should be proud of his contribution to Newcastle United’s progress over the past four-and-a-half years.”
“I have admired Kieran from afar for many years, but watching him up close in recent months has only reinforced his influence as a leader both in the dressing room and on the pitch.
“When the time comes, Kieran will leave with great respect and gratitude to everyone involved at Newcastle United. We wish him every success in his future endeavors.”
