Newcastle United set to be without Nick Pope until Boxing Day | OneFootball

Newcastle United have learnt the extent of goalkeeper Nick Pope’s injury just hours before their Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur. 

Pope sustained a groin injury in training on Friday, which saw him miss the Magpies’ 4-1 win at Everton last weekend. 

Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie says the 33-year-old will miss the next three weeks of action. 

This means he will not be available for the next six fixtures against Tottenham (December 2), Burnley (December 6), Bayer Leverkusen (December 10), Sunderland (December 14), Fulham (December 17) and Chelsea (December 20). 

The England international will likely return to the squad for the visit to Manchester United on Boxing Day. 

Pope’s injury will be a big blow for Newcastle, who have struggled for consistency this campaign, sitting 13th in the Premier League table.   

He has been Eddie Howe’s first-choice goalkeeper this season, starting the opening 12 top-flight matches and keeping five clean sheets. 

Pope’s absence will allow Aaron Ramsdale to stake his claim for the number one berth. 

Ramsdale was outstanding between the sticks against Everton on Saturday, denying James Garner with a brilliant save. His distribution was also excellent. 

The 27-year-old joined on a season-long loan from Southampton in the summer, with the deal including an option to buy. 

Newcastle may exercise the option to make his move permanent if he impresses with his displays at St James’ Park. 

Stats from Transfermarkt