Kieran Trippier makes shock appearance for Newcastle Under 21s as defender plays first half in draw against Sunderland after he was unused substitute for first-team

Kieran Trippier made a shock appearance for Newcastle United’s Under-21s in the Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland on Monday night.

Just over a month on from his participation at Euro 2024 and defeat in the final versus Spain, the England defender turned out in front of around 1,000 spectators in a 1-1 draw at Whitley Park.

Trippier was an unused substitute during Newcastle’s 1-0 opening-day win over Southampton on Saturday, and we understand he put himself forward for a role with the second string.

Mail Sport revealed on Monday tea-time that the 33-year-old was set to play the first 45 minutes, and he enjoyed a solid half at right back before making way at the break, along with fellow first-teamer Matt Targett.

England international Trippier played the first half of the game on Monday night

Trippier was an unused substitute in Newcastle’s Premier League opener v Southampton

Trippier’s future on Tyneside is uncertain – he has 12 months on his contract – and we reported on Monday that Bruno Guimaraes has now been promoted to team captain on a permanent basis.

Eddie Howe was in the stands at Whitley Park and we understand the head coach wants his vice-captain to remain at the club.