Newcastle — Newcastle United right back Kieran Trippier has undergone successful surgery after fracturing his foot, manager Eddie Howe said on Friday, adding that he hoped to have the squad's "inspirational figure" back this season.
Newcastle signed Trippier in January from Atletico Madrid for 12 million pounds ($16 million) and the 31-year-old played four games, scoring twice, before fracturing his left foot in Sunday's 1-0 win over Aston Villa. Read full story
"He had his operation yesterday and that went well so that was good news," Howe told reporters ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to West Ham United.
"We don't know how long he will be out and hope to have him back before the end of the season. It's a big blow to us because he was performing well.
"We hope to see him before end of season, we will have to see how early rehab goes and its an opportunity for someone to step up. We will miss his leadership skills and his goals... but we are confident we have enough quality to cover."
Trippier scored in his last two games, both free kicks, to help lift Newcastle four points clear of the relegation zone and Howe said the club would miss his influence.
"The players have found him an inspirational figure," Howe added.
"That won't change, he may not be on the pitch, but for a period of time he will be supporting them from the training ground... He's got a big part to play even though he's not on the pitch."
Newcastle's new 40 million euros ($45 million) signing Bruno Guimaraes has yet to start a game, only coming on as a substitute twice in injury time, but Howe said the 24-year-old midfielder would have to be patient.
"Bruno will start a lot of games for us and will be a huge player," Howe said.
"I don't think this period where he's watching and learning from the Premier League is a bad thing for him, although it will frustrate him because he wants to show his talent."
Reuters