Newcastle fans woke up to some unexpected news ahead of the clash with Everton: goalkeeper Nick Pope won’t be in the squad.
The stopper, who’s had a rough patch recently including a costly mistake against Marseille, picked up a groin injury in training the day before the game.
Changes Across the Pitch
The club’s official X account confirmed six changes to the lineup from the midweek Champions League fixture.
Aaron Ramsdale, Lewis Hall, Lewis Miley, Joelinton, Anthony Elanga, and Nick Woltemade all slot into the starting eleven, while Pope remains out due to injury.
A Rough Week for Pope
Pope’s struggles have been impossible to ignore.
In the midweek clash in Marseille, Newcastle led 1-0 shortly after the break when the goalkeeper rushed off his line, allowing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to equalize.
Moments later, Aubameyang netted the winner, leaving Newcastle stunned.
Those errors have fueled debates over whether Aaron Ramsdale should take over in goal, with supporters calling for change after each misstep.
The pressure on Pope has been mounting, particularly for away games.
Eddie Howe Reflects on Goalkeeper Dilemma
Before Pope’s injury, manager Eddie Howe had faced plenty of questions about his No. 1.
He admitted all options are under consideration and emphasized that goalkeeper rotation is a serious decision.
“His shot-stopping has been incredible,” Howe said.
“He makes so many saves that they almost become expected. The life of a goalkeeper is on a knife-edge.
He’s been very strong apart from a couple of high-profile moments.”
Howe also highlighted Pope’s experience and temperament.
“Nick is vastly experienced, very level-headed.
You don’t see huge highs or lows, even when he makes world-class saves.
We back him fully—he’s made a number of brilliant saves this season.”
Ramsdale Gets His Chance
With Pope injured, the decision of who starts against Everton has been taken out of Howe’s hands.
Aaron Ramsdale steps in as the goalkeeper and will be eager to make the most of this opportunity.
His performance could complicate Howe’s future decisions when Pope returns to fitness.
Looking Ahead
While Pope recovers, Ramsdale has the chance to stake a claim and give Newcastle fans confidence between the sticks.
For Howe, it’s a delicate balancing act: rewarding consistency while keeping the team competitive in the league and Champions League.
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