Newcastle United fullback Kieran Trippier believes pre-season with manager Eddie Howe played a huge role in their impressive season so far.

The Magpies are in the Carabao Cup final, while they are very much in the race to finish in the Premier League top four.

Newcastle booked their spot in the League Cup final, beating Southampton, where they will take on Manchester United.

Post-game, Trippier told Sky Sports: "I felt pre-season was massive. When the manager stamps his authority with the way he wants to play, the philosophy he wants to play. I think working hard as well, on the training field we've worked really hard."

Trippier added: "When I got injured it was difficult of course but I felt it was important that I travelled with the lads, being there for the lads, and that's what I said when I arrived - I want to help the team through a difficult moment on and off the pitch. I felt like with my presence I could do that whilst being injured."