Tottenham took part in the first Premier League game of 2017, travelling to Watford to do so, and with the help of stand-in right-back Kieran Trippier, Mauricio Pochettino’s side set the bar for the year.
With Kyle Walker suspended for a game, Trippier stood in and performed more than admirably, creating the opening two goals for Harry Kane to convert.
GOAL Watford 0-2 Spurs (33 mins). Harry Kane volleys home Kieran Trippier's excellent cross to double Spurs' lead #WATTOT
— Premier League (@premierleague) January 1, 2017
Tottenham fans were mightily impressed by the English defender’s contribution.
That's one of the best crosses I've ever seen live. Unreal, Trippier.
— The Spurs Brain (@TheSpursBrain) January 1, 2017
Spurs have been sublime and at times exquisite. Fantastic delivery from Trippier. Kane, unplayable. Alli is just very, very special 👌🏻 #COYS
— Ben (@thespursramble) January 1, 2017
And it quickly came to people’s attention that Trippier was effectively painting on 2017′s blank canvas, setting the pace for the year.
Assists in 2017.
— bet365 (@bet365) January 1, 2017
Kieran Trippier - 2
Everyone else - 0 pic.twitter.com/JMJU85Ujml
Trippier has more assists than every Premier League, LaLiga, Serie A and Bundesliga side combined in 2017. pic.twitter.com/joz1t5bpKh
— Andrew Gaffney (@GaffneyVLC) January 1, 2017
The stats earned him some big comparisons.
Premier League this season:
— Andrea (@SilkySuso) January 1, 2017
Kieran Trippier: 3 games, 2 assists
Mesti Ozil: 16 games, 2 assists
Difference pic.twitter.com/GarRImAMrY
Kieran Trippier taught Lionel Messi everything he knows. #COYS
— Talking THFC (@TalkingTHFC) January 1, 2017
But it must have been a difficult watch for fans of his former club, Burnley.
Kieran Trippier pic.twitter.com/WCMqYL5EMx
— Liam Kenniford (@LiamKenniford) January 1, 2017
Will the right back continue his good form, or will Kyle Walker keep him out of the team for now?
