Kieran Trippier Asked "Why Swap Champions League Last 16 For A Relegation Battle?" In First Newcastle Press Conference

Kieran Trippier has explained why he chose to join Newcastle United from reigning La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.

The 31-year-old was confirmed as Newcastle's first signing of the Saudi-led era on Friday morning and he put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half year deal.

Trippier regularly started for Atletico over in Spain and they've got a big Champions League clash with Manchester United coming up next month.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are 19th in the Premier League and in serious danger of going down. Trippier has claimed that challenge is what appealed to him.

Reporter 🗣 "Why swap the last 16 of the Champions League for a relegation battle?"

Trippier 🗣 "I'm the type of player who loves challenges."

Kieran Trippier had no doubts about leaving Atletico Madrid to return to the Premier League at Newcastle pic.twitter.com/KZfgZN84jk

— Football Daily (@footballdaily) January 7, 2022

When quizzed about the transfer he replied: "I think I made it clear a few months ago that if I had the opportunity to come back to the Premier League I'd love to do so. It's important for my family as well.

"It's a great opportunity. I'm the type of player who loves challenges. I had a challenge going to Atletico in the first place, changing countries, different league, now I'm at Newcastle.

"I know the position they're in and I'm here to help as much as I can on and off the field."

Trippier has worked with Magpies boss Eddie Howe previously, with Howe signing him from Manchester City while Burnley manager in 2012.

"I have a great relationship with the manager as everyone knows," Trippier continued. "I've worked with the manager before.

"I'm the type of player who loves a challenge and this is certainly a challenge for me and one I'm excited about."

An England international, Trippier move to Atletico from Tottenham Hotspur in 2019 after four years in London.

During his time abroad, he helped Diego Simeone's side win their first La Liga title in seven years.

Trippier has been accused of signing for Newcastle just for the money but it's something Howe was quick to address.

He said following the unveiling: “It’s a sign this club has a huge pull and I’m not talking financially.

🤝

⚫️⚪️ pic.twitter.com/AsikAMHCtS

— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) January 7, 2022

“Kieran hasn’t come here for financial reasons, he’s come for this club and its challenge and the longer-term vision.

“Hopefully with his signing, others players around the world will share his dream and vision.”

Trippier could make his debut in tomorrow's FA Cup third round meeting with Cambridge United. If not, he could start in their next league game, against fellow relegation strugglers Watford.