Newcastle United's Kieran Trippier insists this current crop of Magpies can deliver in the Champions League next season and isn't afraid to make his feelings clear on qualifying for Europe's premier competition.
Eddie Howe's men are just a few games away from securing a top four spot as they try to fend off Manchester United, Liverpool and Brighton at the business end of the campaign. Newcastle have overachieved this term and sections of the fan base believe a number of summer signings would be needed should Champions League qualification be secured before the end of the month.
However, Trippier doesn't subscribe to that notion and has full belief that this group could perform at the top table. "I think we could [deliver in the Champions League]. I'm a big believer in as a group if we're on the same page and we're pulling in the same direction that will take you so far. It's so powerful," Trippier told the High Performance Podcast.
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"I think it would be a great occasion for the lads to be playing Champions League football. But we've got a big game this weekend and we'll see what happens."
Howe has been reluctant to talk about the Champions League and continues to insist he and his team are taking it 'one game at a time'. Fans, however, are beginning to dream of memorable nights on the continent.
Trippier also has no issue admitting he is itching to return to the biggest club competition in the world having experienced incredible Champions League memories with Tottenham and Atletico Madrid.
"I would be silly to say I've not. I don't want to lie to you," Trippier said. "We shouldn't be scared to say we want to play Champions League football.
"I know the manager and people have been saying 'we'll take it a game at a time' - and I understand that. But players like myself want to play Champions League football again.
"I had a taste of it for a good number of years and if we brought that back here I dare to think what it would be like for this city and this club in the Champions League."
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