Howe’s praise for injured ‘leader’ Tripp
EDDIE Howe hailed Newcastle United’s 2-0 win over Brentford as the ultimate “professional performance” after his side made it seven games unbeaten in the Premier League.
The Magpies are now on a real high and take on Brighton and Hove Albion next weekend knowing they can take another huge step towards safety.
Howe’s side sit on 25 points and could require another four wins from the remaining 13 matches.
Howe said: “We are on a really good run.
“The spirit is high and confidence is returning to the players, but we have tough fixtures ahead and aren’t taking anything for granted.”
Newcastle won it thanks to goals from Joelinton and Joe Willock but were aided by a red card for Josh Dasilva in the first half.
Howe reflected: “Really, really pleased with our response to the red card, because, as we saw in our game against Norwich, it doesn’t guarantee you anything.
“We knew we’d have a lot of the ball, and it was about our quality and ability to break them down.”
Howe says team spirt was epitomised by injured defender Kieran Trippier joining the squad – on crutches – at Brentford.
He said: “Kieran stayed with us last night.
“He wanted to be around the players, and I think that’s full credit to him.
“That’s his mindset, he wants to make a difference, even though he’s not on the pitch at the moment.
“I’ll always help players if they want to be involved when they’re injured if they’re good personalities, which he is.
“He’s a leader.
“He was in and around the dressing room, although he wasn’t necessarily giving speeches.
“But he there as a support for the players, if they needed it.”