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Kieran Trippier goal: England prediction made over future after World Cup brilliance
KIERAN TRIPPIER has a “massive future” ahead of him and will be England’s first-choice right-back for the foreseeable future.
England V Croatia: Lee Dixon claims he scouted Kieran Trippier
That’s the opinion of Lee Dixon, who has been hugely impressed with the development of Trippier since his time at Burnley.
The 27-year-old only made his England debut last summer in a 3-2 defeat to France but this World Cup he has established himself as a key member of Gareth Southgate’s side.
His dead-ball ability has led to several England opportunities in the World Cup so far none will compare to his moment five minutes into the game against Croatia.
Dele Alli won his country a free-kick 20 yards out from goal with Trippier stepping up to take and the Tottenham full-back delivered a curling shot out of the reach of Danijel Subasic to send England fans crazy.
And, speaking ahead of the game, Dixon heaped plenty of praise on Trippier for his development over the last year.
“He was a good full-back then and his delivery has always been brilliant,” Dixon said on ITV.
“The movement that England have got and the way he stays on the right-hand side and delivers balls like that.
“He’s an outlet on that side, he’s naturally right-footed… straight away he knows where the space is, he knows where the runners are going; there’s an understanding between Dele Alli and Lingard to know that when he gets the ball, he’ll make runs into space.
“His one-on-ones he’s getting better and better at.
“I had the pleasure of handing him his first shirt against France and he’s a lovely kid… really humble.
“I think he’s got a massive future and the fact that he’s playing so well and he’s got that number two shirt now, I think he’s going to be there for years to come.”