Paul Merson makes Kieran Trippier claim ahead of Newcastle United v Luton Town

Former Arsenal and England forward Paul Merson has shared his perspective on Newcastle United’s upcoming match against Luton Town. Merson believes that Newcastle is facing challenges in finding fluency in their gameplay, making their trip to Luton Town a potentially difficult encounter.

Reflecting on Newcastle’s performances in December, Merson acknowledged the Magpies’ contrasting results, including impressive wins against Fulham and Manchester United, but also disappointing defeats against Everton and Tottenham Hotspur. Furthermore, Newcastle’s exit from the Champions League and a Carabao Cup quarter-final loss to Chelsea in a penalty shootout have added to the team’s mixed run.

Ahead of their match against Luton Town, Merson emphasized the emotional aspect of the occasion, considering that the Hatters are returning to action after their captain, Tom Lockyer, collapsed on the pitch in the previous weekend’s game against Bournemouth.

Merson specifically addressed the form of Newcastle’s defender Kieran Trippier and expressed his observation that Newcastle did not look fluent in their recent midweek clash against Chelsea. Recognizing Luton Town as a tough opponent at Kenilworth Road, Merson described the fixture as “tricky” and indicated that he is leaning towards predicting a Luton win. He noted the challenge for Newcastle to “steamroller” their hosts in this particular matchup.