Kieran Trippier

We heavily debated including Trippier in the team,and after the squad size was increased to 26 players we are confident he will be chosen. He was part of the same exceptional Newcastle defense that Pope was a part of during their Champions League qualification, and he offers both defensive and offensive options. He played every match during the 2022/23 season, earning 14 clean sheets (second most in the league) and 7 assists. He also started off the 2023/2024 season very strongly, and has already registered 10 assists and 1 goal. These stats combined with the fact that he is one of the most experienced players in the team means he should be an obvious pick. The reasons we were on the fence about Trippier include his recent drop in form, recent injuries, and extensive competition in his position. Trippier picked up a calf injury mid-way through the season which caused him to miss 7 games, and so far he has been unable to return to his previous form. This has coincided with a capitulation of Newcastle’s defense, which has now conceded more goals than two thirds of other Premier League teams. Finally, England’s right back position has been notoriously competitive during recent years. Notable English right-backs include Trippier, Reece James, Kyle Walker, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. In spite of all these factors, we think that Trippier’s resume is sufficient for him to be selected. We predict that Southgate will choose to play Alexander-Arnold in a midfield role, meaning the backup right-back option should be open for Trippier. There are many different ways this situation could play out, but at the moment we think Trippier has earned his place in this team.