Kieran Trippier ‘worry’ after Newcastle United defender plays 90 minutes for England vs Serbia

Ian Wright praised Kieran Trippier for his performance against Serbia but questioned whether he can compete with the Euro 2024 as a left-back.

England got off to winning ways in Germany by edging out Serbia 1-0, with Jude Bellingham proving the difference. A win over Denmark on Thursday will ensure the Three Lions’ place in the last 16.

Injuries forced Newcastle United star Trippier into a different role from his usual right-back berth. Chelsea defender Ben Chilwell never made the plane while Gareth Southgate took a risk on Luke Shaw despite not playing a competitive game since February.

Trippier deputised at left-back - a position he has covered before on England duty - and barely put a foot wrong defensively. There were, however, concerns about what the 33-year-old offered going forward, with Phil Foden isolated and out of sorts on the left flank.

Speaking on the Wrighty’s House podcast, Arsenal legend Wright hailed Trippier for a competent performance under pressure and out of position. But there were concerns about how the Toon ace may cope against some of the best wingers at the Euros, with Germany talent Florian Wirtz touted as a potential danger man.

“Trippier for a right-footed left-back, very solid,” Wright said. “He can get forward and can still pass the ball well. I thought that (the back four) worked pretty well.

“Trippier as a right-footed left-back needs to be tested against the top teams, can you imagine Florian Wirtz finding space? That’s what you have to worry about. But I thought it went okay.”