Jermaine Jenas thinks one Newcastle player got injured in the first-half tonight and carried on playing anyway

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When reflecting on Newcastle United’s gutting defeat against AC Milan tonight, Jermaine Jenas was convinced one player was playing through pain.

Jenas was speaking following full-time and thought one of Eddie Howe’s side was showing extreme determination to keep fighting for his side.

And although those efforts were eventually in vain, Jenas was impressed by the dogged spirit.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Jenas said: “Kieran Trippier in particular. I think he was carrying an injury from the first half and he just dug on in there.”

Of course, it almost wouldn’t be a surprise if Trippier was starting to show some signs of wear given all of his minutes recently.

The Newcastle full-back has been consistently brilliant for Eddie Howe over the years, but even he is now struggling with the fixture schedule and lack of rotation available.

Moreover, the 33-year-old has been showing small lapses of concentration in his game – something rarely seen before.

And although all associated with the club will be hoping any injury is only minor, Trippier will have the chance to recover this weekend.

The full-back is suspended against Fulham because of yellow card accumulation, so will get a rare rest.

Jermaine Jenas thought Kieran Trippier played through injury for Newcastle against Milan

Much like Newcastle’s Champions League campaign as a whole, there were some brilliant moments despite the disappointing result tonight.

Joelinton’s strike absolutely stunned Ally McCoist, who was also so impressed with the play leading to the goal.

And perhaps a lot of Newcastle fans will still feel rightfully aggrieved by the late decision that went against their side in the Parc Des Princes in the previous game.

Many feel that Paris Saint Germain didn’t deserve a late penalty – even if the VAR officials felt otherwise.

Either way, as Jenas will point out, Kieran Trippier should be applauded for soldiering on for Newcastle against Milan tonight.

And although this disappointment will linger, Newcastle have proved why they need to qualify for the Champions League again this season.

The club, the ground and the fan base are all built for these kinds of European evenings.

And Eddie Howe’s side will need to quickly bounce back from a frustrating night.