Newcastle United fell to a 3-2 defeat at Manchester United on Wednesday night, a result which has dented their European hopes for next season.
The Magpies went into the game hoping for three points that could’ve given them a chance of getting fifth place – and Europa League football – on the final day.
However, Newcastle can’t finish above sixth place now and, with Chelsea winning 2-1 at Brighton, the Magpies’ hopes of Europa Conference League football are slim.
Manchester United’s first goal came about because of lacklustre Newcastle defending, Amad Diallo cutting the Magpies back line open with a pass to Kobbie Mainoo.
Kieran Trippier, who had returned to the starting XI for the first time since March, had dropped off too much at the back, which kept Mainoo onside.
Indeed, the Red Devils youngster appeared surprised, but he made no mistake from close range to put the hosts in the lead.
Wayne Rooney couldn’t believe what he saw from the £100,000-a-week Newcastle defender, and criticised him on Sky Sports.
“We are quick enough to criticise Casemiro for the goal against Arsenal, but look at Kieran Trippier,” he said at half-time, as transcribed on BBC Sport.
“He is a defender and that is shocking. Protect your goal! I don’t know what he is doing.”
Newcastle went on to equalise through Anthony Gordon in the second half, but Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund put Man United 3-1 up by the 84-minute mark.
And though Lewis Hall scored a great late effort to bring the Magpies back to within a goal, the hosts held on for all three points.
Bad mistake by Newcastle star Kieran Trippier
Trippier has been an outstanding player for most of his time at Newcastle. However, there have been numerous instances this season in which he has struggled and make mistakes.
It’s a shame to see Trippier make another key error for Newcastle. No doubt he’ll be looking forward to the end of the season, and hopefully next term will see him back to his best in black and white.
