Kieran Trippier was recently rewarded with a new contract at Newcastle following his excellent spell in the North East.

The right-back has thrived under Eddie Howe and is helping lead the charge towards European football next season.

Trippier, 32, has picked up the captain's armband in Jamaal Lascelles' absence and his influence both on and off the pitch is helping Newcastle enter a new era.

Ahead of their Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg tie with Southampton tonight, we turn the spotlight on his time on Tyneside so far. 

Captain, leader, legend

Trippier looks at the peak of his powers despite being on the wrong side of 30. His fitness and technical ability look better than ever in a black and white shirt and he is under contract until 2025.

With Howe reconstructing his squad and introducing plenty of fresh faces, it is imperative that the Toon have a respected figure leading them out at St James' Park and Trippier ticks that box.

He leads by example and this is reflected in his side conceding a Premier League-low 11 goals in so far this season.

The right-back is visibly vocal on the pitch and he is both firm and constructive with his words. As it stands, he is irreplaceable in the current set-up.

Working his magic

Trippier has featured in every single game for his club this season across all competitions and cannot be faulted for his effort and quality.

It is rare for the England international to put in a bad performance and he ranks near the top when it comes to key components of his game.

In 2022-23, the former Tottenham defender has recorded five goal contributions and has created 16 big chances — only Kevin De Bruyne boasts more.

On top of this, no player has attempted (199) or completed (81) more crosses than Trippier in the Premier League this season. Andreas Pereira is second on the list, but he has only completed 52.

His accolades include ranking in the top 10 when it comes to total touches, through balls completed, final third passes, possessions won in the middle third and chances created.

An experienced head

Trippier has experience in different cultures and environments at some of the top clubs in European football.

His time at both Tottenham and Atletico Madrid have moulded him into the player he is at Newcastle but his ability to overcome challenges is what makes him so inspirational.

In North London, he had to compete with one of the best defenders of the modern era in Kyle Walker.

He went on to outlast the now Manchester City star but his patience and hard work eventually saw him claim the right-back spot as his own under Mauricio Pochettino.

In Madrid, Trippier had to adapt to an entirely different culture. He faced challenges in learning a new language, adapting to a new style of football and trying to fit in all at the same time.

The 40-cap international overcame all of this at club level and his experience in the national side gives him the ability to lead Newcastle with wisdom and without fear.

The best of times

Having signed a new contract, Trippier spoke about his form for Newcastle and gave himself a glowing review.

He said: "Personally, I think I'm playing the best football of my career here at Newcastle, so I think it was an easy decision to make.

"We're challenging for the cup, we're in a good position in the league and it's a bright future ahead for Newcastle.

"I've had a great relationship with the manager for many years. That was another easy decision for why I came to Newcastle in the first place, and I feel like he's brought an extra level out of me this season, tactically as well.

"I think it's a great moment for the team and the club in this present time, and we now just want to look forward and be positive."

Newcastle can book their place in the Carabao Cup final for the first time since 1976 with a win over the Saints tonight and Trippier will be hoping to play his part in proceedings.