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Eddie Howe backs his Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope to dislodge Everton’s Jordan Pickford as England’s number one ahead of the Qatar World Cup
- Newcastle manager Eddie Howe wants Nick Pope to challenge Jordan Pickford
- Howe believes the Newcastle keeper could become England’s next number one
- Pope joined Newcastle from Burnley for £11million during the transfer window
- The Newcastle boss praised Hope following a bright start to the season
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Eddie Howe believes Nick Pope should be pushing to dislodge Jordan Pickford from England’s No 1 spot heading into the World Cup.
The Newcastle goalkeeper comes up against Manchester City’s Ederson this afternoon — the only two stoppers yet to concede in the Premier League this season.
Pope was outstanding during last weekend’s goalless draw at Brighton and has looked a bargain at £11million from Burnley.
Nick Pope has enjoyed a strong start to life as Newcastle United goalkeeper this season
Jordan Pickford has established himself as England number one under Gareth Southgate
The 30-year-old has eight England caps and will almost certainly be part of Gareth Southgate’s squad in Qatar. Howe, though, insists he can go one better and win a starting jersey.
‘I am sure Nick does [have ambitions to push Pickford],’ he said. ‘If he didn’t, I’d say he needs to review his ambitions, because when you’re in his position, you’re close to playing. He’s only a couple of positions away.
‘You’ve got to reach and you’ve got to strain to try to make that jump. Certainly, with the start he has made for us, he’s done himself no harm.’
Pope made an £11million switch to Newcastle from Burnley this summer
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has backed Pope to challenge Pickford for England
Pope has taken the position of Martin Dubravka at St James’ Park and Howe will be allowing one of his four goalkeepers to leave before September, although he would prefer the Slovak to remain and compete for a starting spot.
’It’s difficult for Martin, but he’s been fantastic behind the scenes, he really has,’ said the head coach.
Pickford has conceded four goals as part of an Everton side without a Premier League win