Tottenham defender Kieran Trippier has revealed his inspiration for taking his trademark curling free-kicks – Manchester United legend David Beckham
As reported by Daily Mirror, Kieran Trippier has revealed that he learned the tricks of the trade in taking free-kicks by watching videos of David Beckham. The English international added that he is hoping to emulate his compatriot when Tottenham play Manchester United at Old Trafford on Monday.
Trippier has seen his stock skyrocket over the last couple of seasons, having established himself as the full-back of choice for club and country. At Tottenham, he first usurped Kyle Walker to become the first-choice right-back in the 2016-17 season before making the position his own last term.
In national colours, Trippier was one of the best performers for England as they reached the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In particular, his ability on the dead ball has caught the attention of many-an-onlooker, something he will be trying to be on top of when Tottenham face Manchester United on Monday.
But, who is the inspiration for the diminutive full-back, when it comes unleashing his trademark curlers on the dead ball. Unsurprisingly, he’s a player who has his fair share of knowledge of bending a free-kick or two – Manchester United legend David Beckham.
When quizzed on the topic, Trippier said, “When I was younger, I used to watch Becks for ages on YouTube. His crossing, the way he picked people out, his long passing, his short passing. And, of course, his ability at set-pieces and the way he moved the ball at free kicks.
“He was the one I always looked up to. Him and (Andrea) Pirlo. But more Beckham. He was always my idol growing up, someone I wanted to be. I’m nowhere near his level — but I can try and get there.”
Trippier’s ability to find the back of the net from the dead ball was evidenced perfectly last week as Spurs beat Fulham 3-1. On the same weekend, Tottenham’s next opponents, Manchester United had a game to forget as they were humbled in a 3-2 loss at Brighton and Hove Albion.
Trippier will be hoping he can inflict some more misery on Jose Mourinho and his men, with a win being crucial for Manchester United on Monday. For now, Trippier continues to go from strength to strength, and another goal from a splending free-kick, similar to those produced by his idol, cannot be ruled out just yet.
