Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier Retires From International Football

England international and Newcastle United fullback Keiran Trippier has called it a day on his international career. The 33-year-old defender, who earned 54 caps for England, was a vital player throughout Gareth Southgate’s time as manager of the Three Lions.

Trippier's decision comes just days before interim England manager Lee Carsley was set to announce his first squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Ireland and Finland. In his 54 caps for England, Trippier managed to score just one goal – a free-kick stunner in England’s 2-1 semifinal defeat at the hands of Croatia during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Besides the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Trippier also played an instrumental role in England’s deep runs at the 2020 Euros, 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Euros. 

The 33-year-old announced his retirement from international football through his official Instagram account. He wrote, “I never thought as a young lad from Bury that I would play for my country let alone achieve 54 caps. It's been one of the biggest honours of my life to represent my country at 4 major tournaments. I want to say a big thank you to Gareth [Southgate] and all the staff that have worked with the England squad for the trust they have placed in me throughout the years. Thank you to all my teammates -- we have had some very special moments reaching 2 Euro finals, and a World Cup semi final and I am sure in the future this group of players will win a major tournament.” 

Trippier also extended his best wishes to Lee Carsley and expressed his gratitude to the England fans. He wrote, “I want to wish Lee (Carsley), the coaching staff and the team all the best for the future. And finally, a big thank you to all the England fans for your incredible support travelling all over the world to support us and keeping us going in the difficult moments." 

Though Kieran Trippier's journey with the Three Lions has come to a close, he's still a vital asset for Eddie Howe at Newcastle United. Even at 33, Trippier continues to prove he's among the best right-backs in the country. However, his future at Newcastle hangs in the balance. The Geordie faithful want him to stay, but with less than three days left in the summer transfer window, anything is possible.  

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