Newcastle star expected to be out until after Christmas with previously undiagnosed injury
A previously undiagnosed injury is now set to leave a Newcastle United star sidelined for most of December, a frustrating blow for Eddie Howe.
Howe demands new ‘consistency’ ahead of Tottenham clash
It’s been one step forward and two steps back for Newcastle all season, but their convincing victory over Everton could well be the turning point of their campaign. The Magpies brushed aside the Toffees to bounce back from Champions League defeat, but Howe is now demanding more “consistency” from him.
“It’s extremely important that we find the consistency we’re looking for. It seems like we’re oscillating between the Champions League and the Premier League without really finding the happy medium we’ve been looking for all season. Hopefully this is the turning point for us.”
Any change in fortunes would certainly also be timely before the January transfer window. Those at St James’ Park endured a chaotic summer window, before finally adding reinforcements to Howe’s squad, but are still targeting a number of new faces to end unfinished business.
This could still include a move for James Trafford. The England international chose Manchester City in the summer, but has since been forced to watch from the bench following the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma. He is now reportedly allowed to leave the club in January, with Newcastle among his admirers.
The goalkeeping position has been a hot topic of debate on Tyneside of late and Trafford’s availability, as well as Pope’s recent injury, could yet see Newcastle make their choice.
Newcastle discover extent of Nick Pope injury
As reported by Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, Newcastle are now expected to be without Pope until Boxing Day at the earliest after a specialist diagnosed his groin injury.
It’s frustrating news for Howe, who told reporters before his side’s match against Tottenham that Newcastle were still trying to get a “good diagnosis”.
Without the imposing goalkeeper, Newcastle will turn to summer signing Aaron Ramsdale. However, it remains to be seen whether he can claim to become their number 1 permanently.
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The Magpies now have a decision to make.
Despite Pope’s recent errors, Howe was quick to brand the 33-year-old “outstanding” after the Marseille game, but will now be forced to play without him.
As the games roll on and Newcastle search for consistency, the absence of one of their most experienced men couldn’t have been much worse.
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