Newcastle United plans to reinstate Martin Dubravka as their top goalkeeper if Nick Pope is sidelined for most of the remaining season due to a shoulder injury he sustained during their recent match against Manchester United. While Pope’s shoulder was swiftly put back in place, scans are being conducted to determine the severity of the damage.
If surgery is necessary, Pope might be out for a minimum of three months, potentially keeping him off the field until March. The 31-year-old has been a pivotal player for Newcastle under Eddie Howe, especially excelling in the Champions League, earning widespread praise for his consistent performances.
Newcastle might consider recruiting a short-term replacement, with David de Gea, previously of Manchester United, being mentioned as a viable option since he’s a free agent post his departure from Old Trafford. However, the current inclination is to provide Dubravka with the opportunity to fill in for Pope.
Dubravka, who served as Newcastle’s top choice before Pope’s arrival, returned to St James’ Park after an unsuccessful loan spell at Manchester United. He substituted for Pope in their recent victory and is set to start in their upcoming match against Everton.
Newcastle’s decision on acquiring another goalkeeper in January hinges on Dubravka’s performances in the next few weeks. The hope is that he proves himself capable, negating the need for further signings.
Despite Pope’s absence, Newcastle still has three experienced goalkeepers available: Loris Karius, who played in last season’s Carabao Cup final, is likely to be on the bench against Everton, along with Mark Gillespie, who could step in if necessary.
Pope’s injury recurrence, having previously dislocated the same shoulder at Burnley, is a setback both for his domestic absence and his aspirations to secure a spot in England’s squad for the Euros finals in Germany next summer.
Excluded from the last two squads, Pope would have had a strong case for a recall, especially with Aaron Ramsdale’s dwindling favor at Arsenal. However, prolonged absence due to injury might hinder Pope’s chances of convincing Gareth Southgate to include him in England’s 23-man squad for the finals.
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