Howe admits Trippier could go after losing the armband

EDDIE HOWE says he cannot guarantee Kieran Trippier will stay at Newcastle, as he defended his decision to make Bruno Guimaraes the team’s new captain.

Trippier is open to a move away from Tyneside — even though Howe says he is surprised by reports suggesting as much — and Everton, Atalanta and Galatasaray are interested. The England full back, 33, was told last week he would no longer be captaining the side in the absence of Jamaal Lascelles, and that Guimaraes had been promoted to the role of skipper. Trippier is said to be disappointed by the timing of learning the news, but Mail Sport understands that his desire to leave is motivated by other factors.

Howe, though, is determined to keep the defender at the club. ‘I can never answer these questions with absolute certainty because the transfer window is always unpredictable,’ said the Newcastle boss. ‘But my wish is that he stays here and continues to play for us. ‘Tripps has trained really well this week. I’m surprised at a lot of the stories that have come out. His professionalism has been first class. He continues to be really valued by all of us. His leadership skills, ability with the ball, his assist record, everything he brings to the group, is everything we want here.’

Mail Sport revealed this week that Guimaraes would be wearing the armband on a permanent basis, which Howe confirmed yesterday. Asked about the impact that could have on Trippier, Howe said: ‘Every decision you make you have to think about it. It was about empowering Bruno. ‘Jamaal is not going to be fit for a long period of time, so he’s been promoted to club captain and he’s going to oversee the (team) captain. we need 11 leaders on the pitch, regardless of who wears the armband.’