>
‘We spend a lot of time together off the pitch’: Kieran Trippier reveals his barbecue bromance with Antoine Griezmann at Atletico Madrid ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final clash with France
Kieran Trippier was once so close to French striker Antoine Griezmann that they used to invite each other over for a round of barbecues.
The two players were together in Spain at Atlético de Madrid and lived in a complex favored by many stars from Diego Simeone’s squad.
“We lived in the same area and spent a lot of time together off the field,” Trippier said.
Kieran Trippier and Antoine Griezmann were close friends during their time at Atlético de Madrid.
The England star and the France striker used to enjoy barbecues together at their compound.
Like we all did. It was like a big family. He helped me with the language and it was very important to me.
We all lived in the same area. To be honest it was great as we were finishing training at 11:30am, the sun was shining and you were barbecuing.
‘What more could you want? You know?
“The good thing is that all the players were hosts and that closeness came from the coach. We were circling each other’s houses as it was literally 10 seconds away.
Trippier, who spent two and a half seasons in Madrid before returning to the Premier League with Newcastle in January, will be on the bench when England take on France at the Al Bayt Stadium on Saturday.
Trippier (pictured) will be on the bench when England take on France at the Al Bayt Stadium.
Griezmann, back at Atlético after a spell at Barcelona, will form part of France’s formidable attacking line-up and will make his 72nd consecutive appearance for his country.
“I didn’t even know that statistic,” Trippier said. “I was lucky to play with him and I have seen his individual talent.
‘He is one of those who even in training is smart when he gains space. He just swerves and is definitely a player to watch. He has individual quality to find a pass, score a goal and reach the area.
‘Griezy is a fantastic player, and we have to be aware of that. We get along really good.
‘His English is good and he really helped me when I was there, even though he arrived after me. I have great respect for him.
‘As a player abroad you find it difficult sometimes and Griezy certainly helped me. So I have a lot of respect for him, but I hope Saturday is a good day for us.”