Monday 2 January 2017 13:45, UK
Kieran Trippier will not be put off by the stiff competition at Tottenham Hotspur after laying on two assists in his side's 4-1 victory over Watford on Sunday.
Kyle Walker's suspension meant Trippier was handed his first Premier League start of the season at Vicarage Road and the 26-year old took his chance.
Trippier admits that keeping the likes of in-form Walker and Danny Rose out of Mauricio Pochettino's first-team plans will be a tough task.
"If you see the performances that Danny and Kyle have been putting in this season, and last season, and in the Euros, obviously it's difficult week in and week out against them because they're both flying," said Trippier.
"I've had to wait and that's because Walks has been doing really well. That's why in training I keep myself match-fit and whenever you're called upon you need to be ready.
Thanks to Trippier, Harry Kane added two to his goal tally after finishing off the right-back's through-ball followed by a superb half-volleyed cross to put Tottenham in control. Dele Alli scored two more either side of half-time before Younes Kaboul added a late consolation.
Trippier added: "It was important I took my chance because I've not played for a couple of weeks.
"I thought it was important that I did well for the team and tried to set up a few or just did my best. I thought I helped the team and it was a good three points."
Rose heaped the praise on Trippier after comfortably taking all three points at Vicarage Road.
He said: "I do feel for Kieran a little bit, with Kyle being outstanding all season and he's pushed on to another level."
"I thought he was brilliant (against Watford). If there's one thing I always say to Kieran and about Kieran is that his delivery is unbelievable.
"The ball for Harry's second goal is no fluke. He does that every day in training and I'm over the moon for him," said Rose.
"Kieran is probably one of the nicest people I've come across in football and for him to get his chance today, it's great that he's taken it."
