Kieran Trippier hails Newcastle team-mates after securing 'massive' draw against AC Milan on Champions League return

Newcastle captain Kieran Trippier was pleased with his side’s performance against AC Milan on Tuesday, but admitted that there are things they must improve on.

Newcastle earned a point in their first UEFA Champions League game in over 20 years, playing out a hard-fought goalless draw with AC Milan at the San Siro.

The Italian giants dominated the match in terms of goalmouth action, but were unable to find a way past Nick Pope despite registering nine shots on target.

While Newcastle only managed one shot on goal, which only came in the 94th minute, Eddie Howe’s side did not look overwhelmed by the occasion and dug in to earn what could turn out to be a crucial point.

Speaking to TNT Sports at full-time, Trippier gave a positive assessment of the Magpies’ display.

“I thought we played without any fear, we knew it was going to be tough,” the 33-year-old full-back said.

“For many of my team-mates it was their first game in the Champions League but I thought they dealt with it well.

“I thought we played a good game but there were certain moments in the final third where we need to be better.”

When put to Trippier that Newcastle’s sloppiness in midfield played into Milan’s hands, the England international highlighted how well his team-mates coped with transitions and counter-attacks.

“Throughout the 90 minutes you’re going to lose possession, so it’s about how you deal with the transition, especially with the players they’ve got.

“But I thought we defended very well today, blocked shots, we threw our bodies on the line. It’s a good point, to come to a place like this, it’s a tough place to play.”

It was a hot and sticky night at the San Siro, but Trippier refused to use that as an excuse for Newcastle appearing to tire in the closing stages.

“It was humid, it was hot, but there are no excuses. It’s the Champions League, you’re playing at the elite level now.

“It’s a massive point, coming to a place like this. Most important thing is another clean sheet which we can build on, but it’s a fantastic point.”

Newcastle find themselves in Group F – dubbed this season’s ‘group of death’ – alongside Milan, Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.

In the other match in the group on Tuesday, PSG beat Dortmund 2-0 with a dominant performance at the Parc des Princes with goals from Kylian Mbappe and Achraf Hakimi.

Newcastle’s next European assignment will be against the French champions at St James’ Park on Wednesday October 4.

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