KIERAN TRIPPIER is set to become the 20th English star to play in La Liga – but what can he learn from David Beckham, Michael Owen and Jonathan Woodgate? The Three Lions full-back, 28, signed for Atletico Madrid earlier this week in a £20m deal, but knows life in Spain won’t be easy. In fact, […]
KIERAN TRIPPIER is set to become the 20th English star to play in La Liga – but what can he learn from David Beckham, Michael Owen and Jonathan Woodgate?
The Three Lions full-back, 28, signed for Atletico Madrid earlier this week in a £20m deal, but knows life in Spain won’t be easy.
In fact, all eyes will be on Trippier as he becomes the first Atleti player to come from England in 95 years.
The last English ace to play for Los Rojiblancos was a forward by the name of simply “Drinkwater”, who scored ten goals in the 1923-24 season.
Many an English player has tried and failed abroad, with few success stories – but who can Trippier learn from?
We take a look at just a few things the ex-Tottenham man can do to ensure his time at the Wanda Metropolitano goes smoothly…
FIRST and foremost, just breathe. Just relax. DON’T do what Woodgate did on his Real Madrid debut.
Eager to impress, the ex-Leeds and Newcastle star scored an own goal and was sent-off in his first-ever game for Los Blancos following his £13m move.
LAST summer, at the 2018 World Cup, Trippier earned comparisons to Beckham from fans across the world for his incredible set-piece delivery.
As well as his whipped crosses into the box, the then-Spurs star scored England’s goal in the semi-final defeat with a stunning free-kick.
Beckham was never afraid to pump the crosses in and take the dead-ball plays at the Bernabeu – Trippier shouldn’t be fearful, either.
IF there’s one reason Barcelona fans loved Gary Lineker, it was for his ability to find the back of the net.
Through 103 La Liga games, the England legend scored 42 times and helped Barca win the Copa del Rey and Cup Winners’ Cup.
OVER at Real Madrid, former Liverpool star Steve McManaman set pulses races in the Spanish capital with his footwork.
Never shy to take on a defender, Macca starred as a Galactico, winning eight trophies in four years – including two La Liga crowns and two Champions Leagues.
FORMER Tottenham and Everton midfielder Samways joined Las Palmas aged 28 – the same as Trippier.
He stayed at the club for six years, etching himself into the club’s history with 160 appearances in all competitions.
Such was his loyalty he was made club captain before he moved on for a brief stint at giants Sevilla.
