Kieran Trippier sends heartfelt message to Leo Shahar after Newcastle development
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Credit: Imago Kieran Trippier sends heartfelt message to Leo Shahar after Newcastle development Wed 25 February 2026 9:45, UK Kieran Trippier has reached out in support of fellow Newcastle right-back Leo Shahar after he made his senior bow for the club against Qarabag on Tuesday.Newcastle headed into Tuesday’s Champions League playoff second leg with a commanding 6-1 lead after thrashing Qarabag in Baku last week.Eddie Howe went strong at St James’ Park, despite their almost certain progression, and his side ran out 3-2 winners on the night to easily progress to the last 16.They were 2-0 up inside six minutes through Sandro Tonali and Joelinton, while Sven Botman extended their lead in the second half between two Qarabag strikes.The comfortable nature of their progression meant that Howe was able to call upon some of his academy stars to make the step up to the first team, with Shahar handed a maiden senior appearance.Read more: Newcastle fans explode at ‘totally embarrassing’ Anthony Gordon and Kieran Trippier bust-up: ‘What is he thinking?’Kieran Trippier congratulates Leo Shahar after his Newcastle debutShahar spent 10 years in Wolves’ academy between 2013 and 2023 before joining Newcastle’s youth set-up and signing his first professional contract in May 2024. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES The right-back, who has captained England at Under-18 level, made the step up to Howe’s first team during pre-season last summer, and has sat on the bench for several Premier League and Champions League games in the last few months.Howe saw fit to give Shahar his senior debut for the club on Tuesday against Qarabag, as he came on for Jacob Murphy in the 87th minute.Magpies veteran Trippier, who will have helped Shahar with his development as they both play in the same position, sent a message to the 18-year-old on his Instagram story following the game.It read: “Congrats on your Champions League debut (Leo Shahar)” with black and white heart emojis.Read more: Nick Woltemade dazzles in ‘wonderful’ moment as Newcastle United send Qarabag packingCould Trippier leave Newcastle this summer?Newcastle’s season has not gone to plan so far, but they are now showing signs of life after wins in four of their last five matches across all competitions.Trippier has not been in top form throughout this term, and at 35-years-old, his time on Tyneside could well be coming to an end soon.His contract is coming to an end in June, but Howe has publicly expressed his desire to keep Trippier around beyond the end of the campaign.If Newcastle do qualify for the Champions League again for next season, then it seems likely that Trippier stays, but if they fail to do so, the former England international will surely move on for pastures new.