Tottenham Hotspur full-back Kieran Trippier has spoken of his desire to build on his impressive performances at this summer's World Cup during the 2018-19 campaign.
Trippier was one of England's standout players in Russia as Gareth Southgate's side made it all the way to the semi-finals, and he carried that form into the new season with a goal from a free kick during Saturday's 3-1 win over Fulham.
The match was Trippier's first since the World Cup - where he also scored a free kick during the semi-final against Croatia - but he revealed that he was almost talked out of going for goal.
"I was delighted to play at the World Cup, it's crazy what a year can do because I only made my debut for England last year and a year later I am playing in a World Cup. I learnt a lot about myself, it gave me a lot of confidence and I am happy to come back with more experience," he told reporters.
"Hopefully I can put that to good use by playing as many games as I can for Tottenham this season and helping the team out. Some of the boys saw me shaping up to take [the free kick] and said, 'Is it not a bit too far out?' That made me question my decision and think, 'Is it a bit too far out?' But the decision had already been made and I tried to block the keeper's view as much as possible by telling the boys to get in the wall.
"I am happy it went in. I think it was a crucial time to get a goal, no matter who scored it, because they were getting on top of the game. They had scored and gained a lot of momentum, but I think my goal threw them a bit. It was a massive goal in terms of the game. Fulham are a very good side and pass it well. I think they will do really well this season."
The goal was only Trippier's second ever for Spurs, and his first since February 2016.
Barney Corkhill
