Trippier exclusive: “One of the best moments of my career”
Kieran speaks to us after dramatic night in Russia
Tue 19 June 2018, 09:12|
Tottenham Hotspur
Kieran Trippier told us a month ago ‘it’s crazy how football goes’ after being selected for England’s World Cup squad a year after his first cap. On Monday night, he lived his boyhood dream by starting England’s opener against Tunisia in Russia – and setting up Harry Kane’s dramatic late winner.
‘Trips’ was outstanding and a Man of the Match candidate as he joined Harry and Dele Alli in England’s starting line-up in Volgograd. Eric Dier made it four Spurs players to feature on the night with a late appearance off the bench.
In the end, captain Kane grabbed the headlines with a match-winning double – the opener on 11 minutes and that thrilling finale in 91st minute when Harry Maguire flicked on Kieran’s corner and Harry was there to nod home for 2-1.
Kieran, 27, was a constant threat and statistics showed he created six goalscoring chances from his right wing-back position – the most from any individual in the tournament so far.
What a feeling to score a winner for @England at the @FIFAWorldCup. Loved it! No less than we deserved. 🦁🦁🦁 #ThreeLions #ENG #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/Pq93wOKHAd
— Harry Kane (@HKane) June 18, 2018
England should have really been out of reach after a dominant first half only for Tunisia to equalise from the penalty spot on 39 minutes.
Gareth Southgate’s men controlled the second half as well but clear-cut chances were few and far between – Kieran went close with a free-kick – before Harry’s late, late show sparked jubilant scenes on the pitch and back home.
It is something I’ve always dreamed about since I was a young boy
Speaking to us exclusively after the game last night, Kieran said: “It was such a proud moment when I stepped out onto the field.
“I was so excited and I just wanted to get on with the game – it is something I’ve always dreamed about since I was a young boy.
“I couldn’t believe it when Harry scored the winner. It was one of the best moments of my career.
“I’m so proud of the team. We deserved the win and most of all I was so happy to see Harry score that winner.”
England now prepare for their second match in Group G against Panama in Novgorod on Sunday (1pm UK). Our three Belgians – Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen and Mousa Dembele – all featured as Belgium beat Panama 3-0 on Monday. Belgium take on Tunisia in Moscow on Saturday (also 1pm UK).
Kieran's numbers...
8 - caps for England
6 - goalscoring chances created against Tunisia
35 - appearances for us in all competitions in 2017-18
10 - assists in the Premier League in the last two seasons
